Bill > SB2013

This bill, titled the Stop Online Booking Scams Act, aims to protect consumers by requiring third-party hotel booking websites, which are online platforms like websites or apps that help you book a hotel but aren't directly run by the hotel itself, to clearly and conspicuously inform users that they are not booking directly with the hotel. This disclosure must be prominent on the page where accommodations are selected, appear before any personal information is entered, and be separate from general terms and conditions. The bill defines "online platform" broadly to include various technologies that facilitate bookings and specifies that "third-party hotel booking website" excludes platforms directly affiliated with the hotel, those with specific affiliation contracts, or those organized by event planners. Violations of this Act will be treated as unlawful practices under the existing Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act, allowing the Attorney General to enforce these new requirements, with the law taking effect on January 1, 2027.