AG Bonta sent a letter to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regarding its rulemaking proceedings to address unfair and deceptive acts or practices related to online food delivery fees. The letter commends the FTC for its attention to this matter and urges that any final rule does not preempt state law, in order to complement California’s existing laws that protect consumers and honest businesses from this deceptive conduct across industries, including food delivery. In 2023, California was the first state to pass an honest pricing law, SB 478, which works to empower consumers by arming them with accurate information upfront, so that they can compare prices between merchants.

“Consumers always, but especially amid a crisis of affordability, deserve to do business with companies that act transparently and with integrity. In 2023, California led the country in banning hidden fees and this week, I applaud the Federal Trade Commission’s work to ensure all Americans are protected from unfair or deceptive online food delivery fees. At the same time, any federal rule must work with and complement the robust protections Californians already enjoy. I appreciate the Federal Trade Commission’s continued interest and effort to protect consumers and honest businesses throughout the nation and to recognize and preserve the vital role of state consumer-protection laws.” – AG Bonta