South OC Times

U.S. Representatives Young Kim, Kathy Castor, Russell Fry, and Kevin Mullin have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at improving cost transparency for short-term lodging stays. The proposed legislation, known as the Hotel Fees Transparency Act of 2025, seeks to prohibit misleading price advertising and requires accurate price listings that include all mandatory and resort fees.

The bill was previously introduced by Reps. Kim and Castor in the 118th Congress and passed the House in June 2024. Rep. Young Kim emphasized the impact of hidden fees on families: “Deceiving fees add up and create more pain for families already struggling to make ends meet due to rising living costs. The last thing Americans need when planning a trip are costly, unexpected fees.”

Rep. Castor echoed these sentiments, stating, “Families shouldn’t have to play a guessing game when planning a trip. Sneaky hidden fees are a burden. They drive up costs and leave families frustrated at checkout.” She highlighted that the act aims to ensure fairness and transparency by eliminating hidden fees.

Congressman Russell Fry noted the importance of transparency for both consumers and local businesses: “The tourism industry is the backbone of our local economy, and millions of families visit our shores each year expecting a fair experience.” He believes that this legislation will reinforce the reputation of tourist destinations as family-friendly.

Rep. Kevin Mullin added that families deserve clarity regarding additional costs before booking accommodations: “Many families have to budget carefully for travel, and they deserve to know how much resort fees and taxes will add up before booking accommodations.”

The bill aims to protect consumers from unexpected charges during their travels.