Illinois lawmakers send junk fees ban to Pritzker's desk

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — State senators passed a bill Wednesday to ban junk fees and create price transparency for consumers.

The measure makes it unlawful for any business to advertise, display, or offer a price for products or services that does not include all mandatory fees or surcharges before taxes.

Sponsors said junk fees cost an average family of four $3,200 each year. Sen. Omar Aquino (D-Chicago) said the price you see should be the price you pay.

"We did make changes to this bill a significant number of times trying to balance out and make sure we have practices in this state that are fair and transparent," Aquino said. "So when people are making really important decisions on how to spend their money, it is done in a way that is informed. They know what they're paying for."

House Bill 228 passed out of the Senate on a 46-12 vote. The legislation previously received a 77-18 vote in the House.

"Whether it's the unexpected add-on charges when booking a hotel room or house rental, purchasing tickets online, or ordering food delivery, you have already paid hidden fees," said Rep. Bob Morgan (D-Highland Park). "You've already paid junk fees."

This plan now heads to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk for final approval.

"Illinois consumers have been nickel-and-dimed out of thousands of dollars per year by unnecessary and deceptive junk fees," Pritzker said. "I am proud that the Illinois General Assembly has passed the Junk Fee Ban Act to put money back in the pockets of families and establish fair, honest pricing — from concert tickets to online shopping."