Florida diners will now be better informed about additional costs associated with restaurant meals, thanks to a new state law that took effect on July 1. The legislation requires restaurants to clearly disclose any extra charges, such as automatic gratuities, service fees, delivery fees, and credit card surcharges, before customers place their orders.
This new transparency rule aims to eliminate the frustration many consumers have experienced when discovering these unexpected fees only after they have ordered their food or received their bill. The law, an expansion of Senate Bill 606 sponsored by Florida Senator Tom Leek, mandates that any mandatory fee beyond government taxes, defined as an operations charge, must be explicitly stated on menus, websites, mobile ordering applications, and written contracts. Restaurants without printed menus must display this information prominently on menu boards or signs near the point of sale.
Customers will also see a detailed breakdown of each additional charge on their bills, allowing them to differentiate between sales tax, automatic gratuities, and other service fees. "Those who visit Florida's dining establishments deserve the ability to see what they are paying for in an era where everything is being broken out into separate fees and charges," stated Senator Leek in support of the legislation. While the law does not prohibit restaurants from imposing service charges, it ensures that patrons are aware of them upfront.
Local residents have expressed relief and support for the new regulations. Tampa resident Lucas Baker told WFLA that hidden fees are "disingenuous" and that open communication with customers about pricing is a positive development. Another diner, John Monaco, emphasized the importance of informed consumer choices, stating, "I think if you know about them, then you can decide."
Restaurants found to be in violation of this law could face enforcement actions from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation's Division of Hotels and Restaurants. Penalties may include fines up to $1,000 per offense, license suspension, or revocation, according to Joyce Ackerbaum Cox, a partner at law firm BakerHostetler.
The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association also backs the legislation, with lobbyist Samantha Padgett affirming that customers "should always know what they are being charged and why." This move aligns with a broader national trend addressing consumer frustration over undisclosed "junk fees" in various industries.
Florida's new disclosure requirements are similar to transparency laws already in place in states like California, Colorado, and Massachusetts. Online discussions among consumers have largely welcomed the change, with many suggesting it's a positive step toward greater honesty in dining. Some consumers, however, expressed a desire for further action, with suggestions ranging from the eventual elimination of mandatory fees to simply increasing menu prices directly to reflect all costs.