SPRINGFIELD – Following years of advocacy, State Senator Omar Aquino’s initiative to ban junk fees in Illinois was signed into law to protect consumers and increase transparency.
“Our state is facing unprecedented challenges due to devastating cuts from the federal spending plan under H.R. 1,” said Aquino (D-Chicago). “Banning junk fees is part of a broader effort to alleviate some of the financial pressure on Illinois families while our state continues to confront a national affordability crisis.”
House Bill 228 will make it unlawful for any business to advertise, display or offer a price for a good or service that does not include all mandatory fees or surcharges before taxes.
The law aims to protect consumers and increase transparency in business practices. According to a Consumer Reports analysis, junk fees cost an average family of four close to $3,200 each year.
“While the federal government is slashing funds for critical programs like SNAP and Medicaid, Illinois is stepping up to make life more affordable for our residents,” said Aquino. “As the rising cost of living forces families to stretch their budgets even further, transparency is necessary to empower residents to make informed financial decisions that protect their hard-earned dollars.”
House Bill 228 was signed into law on Thursday and is effective Jan. 1, 2027.
