Often, local businesses, such as pizza parlors or nail salons, will cover the costs of transaction fees on purchases using a credit card or debit card. However, with shrinking margins, some smaller businesses have made the difficult decision to start charging customers these fees on the total cost of the transaction. Frequently, consumers purchasing a good or service are warned about additional fees that may be applied on the transaction if they choose to pay with a credit or debit card. However, the law does not require consumers to be informed of these fees and they may be confused or frustrated by an additional charge at the time of purchase or later. 
 
Our legislation would simply require businesses to clearly post any surcharges or fees on credit and debit transactions in a place that is easily visible to the consumer. If a business is applying an additional fee because the person is using a debit or credit card, the consumer needs to know this prior to the purchase.
 
We need these protections so consumers can make an informed decision and a fair purchase. In addition, these disclosures will help businesses avoid confusion and upset customers. 
 
Please join us in protecting consumers and ensuring all Pennsylvania shoppers get a fair deal.