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HB 2515

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

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Elizabeth Bennett-Parker and 26 co-sponsors

Virginia requires businesses to disclose all mandatory fees before purchase completion, effective July 2025, to prevent hidden-fee deception.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0685)
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Bill Summary · HB 2515

Legislative bill overview

HB 2515 amends Virginia's Consumer Protection Act to require businesses to disclose mandatory fees or surcharges before consumers complete their purchase. The bill prohibits deceptive practices related to hidden fees that are added at checkout or payment, ensuring transparency in pricing.

Why is this important

Hidden fees—such as service charges, resort fees, or processing surcharges—have become widespread across industries (ticketing, hospitality, dining), often surprising consumers at the final payment stage. This bill aims to reduce consumer deception and give shoppers full price information before commitment, aligning with federal efforts like the FTC's "junk fees" crackdown.

Potential points of contention

  • Business compliance costs: Companies must redesign websites, point-of-sale systems, and advertising to display all fees upfront, creating implementation expenses
  • Definition ambiguity: Determining what qualifies as a "mandatory" versus "optional" fee may create disputes and enforcement challenges
  • Competitive impact: Businesses operating in Virginia may face disadvantages compared to out-of-state competitors not subject to equivalent disclosure rules

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

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