Junk Fee Rule Seeks to Restore Speedy FTC Relief for Consumers

Businesses can thank the US Supreme Court for the Federal Trade Commission’s latest effort to crack down on so-called junk fees for concert tickets, hotel rooms, and other consumer purchases.

The agency Wednesday proposed a broad ban on hidden and bogus fees throughout the economy, as part of the Biden administration’s battle against the charges. The rule would require companies to incorporate and disclose all mandatory fees in the display price of a good or service, so consumers aren’t hit with surprise costs after they agree to make a purchase.

The FTC’s rule would also make it easier for the ...