Ammons-Backed Affordability Bill Cracking Down on ‘Junk Fees’ Passes House Floor

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Carol Ammons, D-Urbana, 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.

“Consumers shouldn’t be paying needless fees to pad the pockets of corporations,” said Ammons. “Cutting down on these exuberant, unnecessary fees is just one small step in fighting to make our lives more affordable.”

The Ammons-backed House Bill 228 would require businesses to display all mandatory fees and charges they are adding on top of a purchase price. Studies show that consumers pay up to 20% more than the advertised price once all fees are included—not only deterring consumer trust in the marketplace, but significantly making it harder for families to budget and make informed shopping decisions.

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.

House Bill 228 advanced off the House floor Thursday and now moves to the Senate chamber for consideration.