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SB 1212

Virginia Consumer Protection Act; prohibited practices, mandatory fees or surcharges disclosure.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Dave Marsden and 1 co-sponsor

Virginia law now requires businesses to disclose all mandatory fees before purchase completion, effective July 1, 2025, prohibiting deceptive pricing practices.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0686)
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Bill Summary · SB 1212

Legislative bill overview

SB 1212 amends Virginia's Consumer Protection Act to require businesses to clearly disclose mandatory fees or surcharges before consumers complete a purchase transaction. The bill prohibits deceptive pricing practices by ensuring that all additional costs are transparently communicated upfront rather than revealed at checkout or payment stages.

Why is this important

Hidden or surprise fees at checkout significantly impact consumer trust and purchasing decisions. This legislation addresses a widespread complaint where businesses add mandatory charges (resort fees, service fees, delivery surcharges) only after customers have committed to a purchase, effectively increasing prices without clear notice. The transparency requirement protects Virginia consumers from deceptive pricing while establishing baseline standards for fair commerce.

Potential points of contention

  • Business compliance costs: Companies will need to update pricing displays, websites, and point-of-sale systems to show all mandatory fees upfront, creating operational expenses particularly for small businesses
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill's distinction between "mandatory" fees versus optional/voluntary charges may create interpretation disputes and enforcement challenges
  • Competitive impact: Businesses that previously used fee structures for profit may face margin pressure if forced to display total costs earlier in the consumer decision process, potentially affecting pricing strategies across industries

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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