California has taken a decisive step towards consumer protection with the enactment of Senate Bill 478 (SB 478), which targets deceptive "junk fees." Sponsored by Attorney General Rob Bonta and co-authored by Senators Bill Dodd and Nancy Skinner, this law, effective from July 1, 2024, aims to eradicate hidden charges that sellers often embed in the purchasing process. These concealed fees, which can significantly inflate the actual cost of goods or services, have been a longstanding concern for consumers, leading to this legislative response to ensure pricing transparency and fairness in the market.
Photo Credit: Kenny Eliason