For Immediate Release: April 13, 2023
Press Contact: [email protected]

FIGHT CORPORATE MONOPOLIES APPLAUDS PENNSYLVANIA LAWMAKERS FOR CHAMPIONING CRITICAL CONSUMER PROTECTION POLICY

Harrisburg, PA — Today, the Committee on Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities held an informational hearing on the Pay the Price You See bill (HB 636). This legislation, introduced by State Rep. Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny), seeks to protect Pennsylvanians from paying deceptive “junk fees” when purchasing goods and services from companies like Ticketmaster.

These surprise charges cost consumers in Pennsylvania and across the country billions of dollars annually in unnecessary fees. During the State of the Union Address earlier this year, President Joe Biden vowed to take on the corrupt junk fees system to combat inflation and protect consumers, particularly Americans who are struggling financially. Following Biden’s address, the White House released guidance for state lawmakers outlining actions they can take to crack down on junk fees and lower costs for residents. Rep. Pisciottano, a member of the Fight Corporate Monopolies Task Force, has been a central leader in supporting this nationwide effort to protect consumers.

Ahead of today’s hearing, Fight Corporate Monopolies released the following statement:

“Today, the General Assembly is taking a critical step towards a state government that works on behalf of working class Pennsylvanians,” said Helen Brosnan, Executive Director of Fight Corporate Monopolies. “By cracking down on surprise junk fees, HB 636 will hold powerful corporations responsible for predatory and illegal practices that place profits over people.”

“At a time when millions of Pennsylvanians are living paycheck to paycheck, it’s encouraging to see lawmakers like Rep. Nick Pisciottano fighting like hell to create an economy that works for everyday people, not just the rich and powerful. We encourage elected officials across the country to follow in his footsteps and champion these vital efforts.”

Fight Corporate Monopolies is a national advocacy organization working to advance common-sense policies to make politics less corrupt and democracy work for all. In September 2022, FCM launched a national task force made up of public officials in state, county, and local government who are committed to passing laws that return power to working people and small businesses.

You can read more about FCM’s advocacy work at: www.fightcorporatemonopolies.org

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Fight Corporate Monopolies is a registered 501(c)(4) nonprofit that is building a movement to address today’s crisis of concentrated economic power. We do not accept any funding from corporations. For more information on Fight Corporate Monopolies, visit:fightcorporatemonopolies.org.