Friday, October 13, 2023

Issue to Watch: FTC "Junk Fees" Rules

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has proposed new rules that would eliminate what it considers hidden and bogus fees. Nearly all of the media coverage on the announcement references hotels and concert tickets as examples. The rules document specifically references unexpected resort, cleaning and amenities fees. Once the proposed rule is published, industry and consumers will have 60 days to comment on it. Watch for the Association's future action alerts for next steps you can take.

Issue to Watch: Proposed New Jersey Franchise Law

A sweeping franchise reform bill is working its way through the New Jersey legislature. If passed, it could have widespread implications for hoteliers.

The bill has split support among the industry’s two biggest advocacy groups—AHLA and AAHOA. If passed, Assembly Bill 1958 would, among other things, impact the sourcing of goods and services, brand standards as set in an operations manual and the logistics of brand-wide loyalty programs. The bill would make it a violation for a hotel franchisor to receive any direct or indirect consideration from a vendor or affiliate unless it is disclosed to the franchisee and then given to the franchisee.

It would also allow a franchisee to purchase goods or services from suppliers besides those designated by the franchisor if those goods and services meet the franchisor’s reasonable specifications and standards. The bill has moved through the legislative process and is now with the New Jersey Senate.  Other states, including Iowa, are watching the outcome carefully to weigh future state-level legislative strategies. 

In Case You Missed It:

Iowa Hotel & Lodging Association's Inaugural Industry Award Winners

The Iowa Hotel & Lodging Association has grown both its operator and allied membership by 30% in the past 12 months. More than 100 industry members convened in Des Moines to celebrate that growth, as well as to attend the new trade association’s Inaugural Awards Celebration. 

If you’re not yet a member join here. Looking for ways to get involved? Join us at one of our upcoming coffee meetings and this month’s educational webinar.

Thank you to our awards event sponsors Iowa Gaming Association and

WoodRiver Energy.

Thank you corporate sponsors WoodRiver Energy, SFM, Catch DSM and West Bank.

Upcoming Monthly Coffee Meetings

Connect with other operators each month at the IHLA’s member coffee meeting. Each month has a featured presenter as well as association updates and plenty of discussion and networking time. A virtual meeting will be held at 10:30 a.m. immediately following the in person event. Questions? Contact Faith Dorn.

NOVEMBER 8

9:00 AM to 10:30 AM

Holiday Inn & Conference Center | 7400 Hudson Rd, Cedar Falls

Guest Speaker: Jessica Dunker, President & CEO | Iowa Hotel & Lodging Association

Questions? Contact Faith Dorn.

Join the Iowa Hotel & Lodging Association and WoodRiver Energy

for a Webinar on Energy Savings!

Join the Iowa Hotel & Lodging Association and WoodRiver Energy for a webinar on energy savings! WoodRiver Energy knows that every business is unique and that you have a very specific set of budget needs and goals. That’s why their team will guide you through a range of natural gas programs and help customize a program that fits your budget.

October 18, 2023

11 AM - Noon

If you appreciate this information, please consider joining. 

These efforts are funded by our membership. Learn more about membership here.