Bill > LD992

This bill introduces new consumer protection regulations for ticket sales and short-term lodging rentals in Maine by requiring full price transparency. Specifically, the bill mandates that businesses advertising tickets to events or short-term lodging must clearly disclose the total price upfront, including all mandatory fees, and display this total price more prominently than any other pricing information. Mandatory fees, such as resort fees, service charges, or convenience fees, must be itemized with their nature, purpose, and amount in a smaller font. The legislation prohibits misrepresenting fees or excluding mandatory fees from the advertised price without clear prior disclosure. The bill empowers the Attorney General to enforce these rules and allows consumers who are harmed by violations to bring legal action. Businesses found in violation can be subject to significant penalties, including treble damages and a fine of up to $5,000 per occurrence. The goal of the bill is to prevent hidden fees and provide consumers with a more transparent pricing experience when purchasing event tickets or booking short-term accommodations.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=992&snum=132