Local NewsCoronavirus

Actions

Several restaurants, businesses adding COVID-19 fees

Posted
and last updated

Millions of Americans are still struggling financially during this pandemic. And consumers may need to look out for one extra cost these days.

Several businesses like salons and restaurants are adding COVID-19 fees to the bill.

They say it's to maintain safety and cover the cost of things like PPE and adding outdoor seating.

Attorney John Coyle says it's important for consumers to know their rights.

"The golden rule is transparency. If you agree to a certain price, and then at the time that the check comes, all of a sudden there's a 4% or 5% hike that no one agreed to. That's where you're going to see trouble. That's where these consumer protection laws come into play," Coyle said.

If you're hit with surprise COVID-related fees, experts say you should try to work it out with the management right then and there.