New California Law Bans Junk Fees and Restaurant Surcharges

Supporters say consumers should see all charges upfront and not get hit with fees ’that are tacked onto seemingly everything.’

Unadvertised service charges, also referred to as “junk fees,” are set to be outlawed across a range of businesses in California beginning July 1. In restaurants, this would mean rolling surcharges into menu pricing.Brandon Ly/Los Angeles Times/TNS

Starting July 1, a new law will forbid California restaurants from incorporating service fees into bills.

Aimed at eliminating the practice adopted by numerous eateries to bolster wages in place of conventional tipping, the law marks a significant change in the state’s dining landscape.