Illinois House Passes Legislation to Put an End to Hidden Junk Fees

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch and Democrats in the Illinois House are cracking down on junk fees that cost consumers an estimated $90 billion per year, with a new measure that holds businesses accountable for charges added on top of advertised purchase prices.

“These hidden fees are taking money from hardworking families in Illinois, and this bill allows us to get rid of this deceptive practice,” said Speaker Welch. “Illinois consumers deserve transparency from businesses, and this legislation allows Illinois to be a national leader in putting an end to hidden junk fees.”

“This legislation marks a crucial step in protecting consumers and fostering fair competition in Illinois,” said Rep. Bob Morgan (D-Deerfield), who sponsored the measure in the House. “We are committed to eradicating predatory practices that harm consumers and small businesses. In Illinois, we want to be sure that the price you see advertised is the price you pay.”

House Bill 4629 would require businesses to display all mandatory fees and charges they are adding on top of a purchase price. The bill also gives the attorney general’s office more authority to hold businesses accountable for not disclosing surprise fees — cracking down on these “convenience” or “processing” fees that many businesses use to charge more for everyday retail purchases and services including hotels and rental cars.