
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is proposing a rule to crack down on 'junk fees' that are often added to restaurant bills as surcharges. These fees have become a point of contention, with restaurants pushing back against the proposed changes. The FTC's initiative is part of a broader effort to eliminate hidden fees in various sectors, including banking and hospitality. Restaurants argue that these fees are necessary to avoid raising menu prices directly, while diners express frustration over unexpected charges. The ongoing debate highlights the tension between regulatory efforts to protect consumers and the financial strategies employed by businesses.

A Guest Essay in the New York Times about the wonderful Lobstermen of Maine, and the Election. Thank you to historian Scott Ellsworth. A lobsterman, “… he’ll cast his vote for Trump. I like Trump’s decisions on stuff he did. The price of gas, groceries, and housing is perhaps…
It's wild to write a column with this headline and not mention that there's a raging, years-long battle about lobster regulations pitting the Biden Administration against basically all Maine politicians. https://t.co/CjNg41sG7W
We’re cracking down on hidden "junk" fees like surprise overdraft and deposit fees, credit card late fees, and hidden hotel booking fees. Even those termination charges that stop you from switching cable and internet plans to get a better deal. They add up. We're taking action.