WASHINGTON — THIRD-PARTY FOOD DELIVERY PLATFORMS would be required to follow specific pricing practices if a new bill from Rep. Dan Goldman of Brooklyn becomes law.
Goldman, a Democrat representing much of western Brooklyn, on Monday introduced H.R. 8510, for which there is a Senate companion, the ‘‘Promoting Real-time Information on Cost Expenditure” Act (S.B. 4401.) U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Luján, Democrat of New Mexico, reintroduced that legislation on Monday in conjunction with Goldman’s bill.
The PRICE Act is intended to provide more clarity on delivery app pricing, particularly on surprise fees and service charges that don’t show up until the checkout screen, which the lawmakers say inflate the total cost of a purchase and preempt customers’ ability to comparison-shop.
The act would require delivery apps to show consumers the full running price of their order as items are added. The apps must also include, prior to checkout, a clear breakdown that prominently displays the ongoing total purchase amount, along with an explanation of any fees.
Last week, the Federal Trade Commission opened a public comment period on the necessity of a rule to address unfair or deceptive fee practices associated with online food and grocery delivery services.
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