Bill > HB321

This bill aims to protect consumers from hidden or unexpected fees when booking transient accommodations and resort time share vacation properties by establishing new disclosure requirements. Specifically, the bill prohibits charging any fees that were not disclosed at the time of purchase, requires businesses to clearly display the total price (including all fees) in advertisements, and mandates that any taxes or fees shown as a percentage must also be displayed as a dollar amount. The legislation defines "junk fees" as hidden, mandatory, or surprise charges that prevent consumers from making fully informed purchasing decisions, referencing a White House report estimating Americans pay over $8 billion annually in such fees. Drawing from national consumer protection efforts, including proposed federal legislation and California's recent consumer protection laws, this bill seeks to create transparency in pricing for transient accommodations by ensuring that consumers know the complete cost of their booking upfront. The law would apply to various types of lodging transactions, including hotels, time shares, and other short-term rental properties, with the goal of preventing deceptive pricing practices and helping consumers make more accurate financial decisions.

Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=321&year=2026