TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – New Florida law requires customers to publish “hidden” fees before they can eat.
The new law, signed to the law by Governor Ron Desantis, requires restaurant owners to notify customers of automated service charges, tips or operational charges.
Many restaurants include appreciation and service charges for large parties, but customers told NBC’s affiliate WBBH that they often don’t notice until the bill arrives.
Some customers said they were charged service fees, preset tips and were still asked for additional tips.
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“I don’t want to go back to the facility from time to time because I feel like I’m being fooled,” Megan Kinar told the news station. “Transparency is important. I think it’s most important that everyone is on the same page.”
According to the new law, all prices must be listed on the restaurant’s menu or on the wall.
“There’s a place that doesn’t tell you. They don’t say it’s been added, you’re leaning over it. It’s great for waiters and waitresses, but you’re paying double,” Cole Peacock, owner of Seed and Bean Coffee Shop, told WBBH.
The new law will come into effect on July 1st.
