Starting September 2, 2025, Massachusetts will roll out new consumer protection regulations that crack down on hidden “junk fees.” These surprise or unnecessary charges—often found in hotel bookings, concert tickets, subscriptions, and services—have long frustrated consumers by inflating prices beyond what was originally advertised.

Attorney General Andrea Campbell first announced the initiative in March, pointing to how such practices violate the Massachusetts Consumer Protection Act.

“We’ve all been there: booked a hotel room, purchased concert tickets, or paid for a service that was advertised at one price and then charged for one exponentially higher — all because of hidden junk fees,” Campbell said in a statement.

What the New Law Means for You

Here’s how the new regulations will affect everyday shopping:

  • Upfront Pricing: Businesses must disclose the total price of a product—including all mandatory charges or fees—before you provide your billing details.
  • Fee Transparency: Companies must clearly explain the nature, purpose, and amount of each fee, and whether it’s optional or waivable. If it is, they must tell you how to avoid paying it.
  • Trial Offers: For trial offers, businesses must disclose any charges you could incur, the exact date by which you must cancel to avoid being billed, and instructions for canceling.
  • Subscriptions and Recurring Charges: If you sign up for a subscription or auto-renewal, businesses must state: if prices will increase after a certain period, whether charges will recur automatically, and how you can cancel as easily as you signed up.

Why It Matters

This new law is designed to ensure consumers are not misled by deceptive advertising. By forcing companies to present the real price up front, shoppers can compare products and services fairly, avoid unexpected costs, and feel more confident about their purchases.

For businesses, it means adjusting marketing and sales practices to meet these new standards—but it also creates a more level playing field.

The Bottom Line

If you live in Massachusetts, get ready for more transparent shopping experiences starting September. From hotel rooms to subscription boxes, companies will be required to show you the true cost before you commit.

That’s one less headache—and one big win for consumers.

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Credit: This article is based on reporting by Bailey Allen, USA TODAY Network – New England, published in the Telegram & Gazette on August 12, 2025.