Buckner-Backed Affordability Bill Cracking Down on ‘Junk Fees’ Moves to House Floor

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — State Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, is cracking down on junk fees that cost consumers an estimated $3,000 every year, with a new measure that holds businesses accountable for charges added on top of advertised purchase prices.

“Illinois families are tired of seeing one price online and paying another at checkout. This legislation is about honesty and making sure people know exactly what they’re paying upfront,” said Buckner. “Businesses shouldn’t be able to hide extra charges in the fine print. If there’s a fee, it should be clear from the start, no surprises.”

Buckner-backed House Bill 228 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.

The bill was passed out of the House Consumer Protection Committee and now moves to consideration on the House floor.