Stadelman bill requires clarity from third-party online booking services

SPRINGFIELD – To protect consumers from unexpected fees and incorrect bookings with third-party services, State Senator Steve Stadelman is fighting to improve transparency from these providers.

“Many individuals easily fall victim to deceptive booking practices through third-party services, especially in the hotel and lodging industry,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “People are losing their money because of these services, and it will only continue if we do not take action and require them to provide mandatory disclosures to consumers.”

Senate Bill 2013 would make it illegal for third-party booking services to facilitate the reservation of a hotel room without disclosing to consumers that they are not affiliated with the hotel and that the consumer is not making a reservation with the hotel directly.

The measure aims to protect consumers from unexpected fees, increased prices and incorrect bookings and that can occur when reservations are made through a third-party booking service. If passed, Illinois would be the first state to require these mandatory disclosures.

“Illinoisans deserve transparency when they are using these online services,” said Stadelman. “I’m pleased we are finally stepping up to help reduce scams and protect consumers.”

Senate Bill 2013 passed the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday.

Stadelman targets devices used to conceal license plates

SPRINGFIELD – With other states reporting influxes in drivers concealing or switching their license plates to avoid legal repercussions, State Senator Steve Stadelman is working to ensure Illinois law explicitly bans license plate flippers.

“Devices like flippers allow drivers to evade tolls and law enforcement, creating unfair and unsafe road conditions for everyone,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “This measure reinforces the importance of accountability on our roads by making it clear these devices are illegal.”

Senate Bill 1883 builds on current law, clarifying that the use of tape or flippers on any registration plate and any other evidence of registration issued by the Illinois Secretary of State is illegal. A license plate flipper is a device that allows drivers – with the push of a button – to obscure their license plates, often used to avoid identification when committing traffic violations. Illinois would join the expanding number of states in outlawing license plate flippers.

“We need to secure the safety of our citizens and officers on the road,” said State Senator Mike Porfirio (D-Lyons Township), chief co-sponsor of the measure. “This bill aims to deter vehicles from hiding their plates and evading accountability.”

Senate Bill 1883 passed the Senate Transportation Committee Tuesday.

Stadelman works to keep preventive care affordable

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to improve the affordability of preventive health care, State Senator Steve Stadelman is sponsoring legislation to eliminate certain fees.

“There’s no reason for hospital-owned health facilities to charge extra fees, especially if it’s a greedy facility fee,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “Health care is already expensive enough as is, and we have a responsibility to make it more affordable for Illinoisans.”

Senate Bill 2182 would make it illegal for a health care facility to charge a facility fee for preventive services provided to a patient at any associated clinic. A facility fee is a charge imposed by hospitals and health facilities for the use of their space, equipment and administrative services, separate from the fees charged by doctors or other health care providers.

“Patients don’t deserve unexpected costs when they seek routine health care,” said Stadelman. “We need to put patients over profit, especially when it’s preventive health care.”

Senate Bill 2182 awaits to be assigned to a Senate committee.

Stadelman measure to protect consumers against speculative ticket sales

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Steve Stadelman is taking action to protect consumers and promote transparency in the ticket sales industry.

“There are many people who have been misled by the terms and conditions of buying a ticket online, often leading to extra fees,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “All consumers deserve to know upfront the conditions and final price of their tickets. This measure will give consumers peace of mind before making a final purchasing decision.”

Speculative ticket listing refers to when sellers list tickets for events that they do not possess in the hope of acquiring them later at a lower price. This often leads to inflated ticket prices and leaves customers vulnerable to price gouging.

Senate Bill 2015 would ban the practice of speculative event ticketing where unofficial sellers list tickets for sale even though they do not actually possess the ticket. Additionally, the bill would regulate the sale of event tickets, requiring sellers to disclose the total price of event tickets upfront, including all fees and charges, to ensure transparency and prevent hidden costs.

“We have allowed the lack of transparency and accountability from these sellers for too long,” said Stadelman. “It’s time we put a stop to these deceptive practices and increase protections for consumers looking to buy event tickets.”

Senate Bill 2015 has been assigned to the Senate Subcommittee on Special Issues.