Biden Intensifies Fight Against Hidden Travel and Hotel Junk Fees
President Biden continues his campaign against "junk fees" in travel and hospitality industries, focusing on transparent pricing for consumers during the busy Thanksgiving travel season.
The Biden administration's key initiatives include:
- Requiring airlines to disclose all costs and fees upfront during booking
- Mandating airlines cover hotel and meal costs for cancellations and delays
- Eliminating hidden resort fees at hotels and casinos
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has already implemented regulations requiring airlines to show complete pricing at the start of bookings, though the airline industry is challenging these changes in federal court.
Person holding ballot box
Airlines for America opposes the changes, arguing that upfront fee disclosure would confuse consumers who may not need all services, such as baggage or reservation changes.
Screenshot of Biden's Twitter post
The initiative also targets casino resort fees, which can add significant costs to advertised room rates. For example, on the Las Vegas Strip, these fees can reach $50 per night before tax. At Caesars Palace, a $259 advertised rate can increase to $350.29 after resort fees ($49.95 daily) and taxes are included.
The administration's efforts come as labor issues affect travel, with Charlotte Douglas International Airport workers staging a 24-hour strike during the Thanksgiving rush, primarily impacting American Airlines operations.