Restaurants can’t force you to pay service charge: CCPA acts against 41 eateries
- Posted on July 20, 2026
- By Financial Express
- 0 Views
- 1 min read
In brief
Regulatory authorities have cracked down on deceptive billing practices by launching enforcement action against 41 dining establishments for implementing unauthorized service charges. This significant intervention clarifies consumer rights regarding gratuities, establishing that mandatory service fees constitute unfair business conduct. The enforcement action reinforces existing consumer protection frameworks and provides guidance on reporting mechanisms available to affected diners seeking redress for billing violations.
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Restaurants can’t force you to pay service charge: CCPA acts against 41 eateries
The CCPA has taken action against 41 restaurants for automatically adding service charges without customer consent, reaffirming that service charges are voluntary and illegal if forced. Consumers can report violations to the National Consumer Helpline.
