15 States Join Forces with Biden Administration to Enforce Airline Consumer Laws

The Biden administration is taking a groundbreaking step by enlisting the help of officials in 15 states to enforce consumer-protection laws for airline travelers. This move, which is typically the responsibility of the federal government, aims to address the surge in air travel and ensure that passengers are treated fairly.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced the agreement, which allows state attorney general offices to investigate complaints about airline service. If an airline is found to have violated the law or is uncooperative with investigators, the states can refer the case to the Transportation Department for enforcement. In exchange, the states will have access to the DOT’s consumer-complaint system and receive training on federal consumer laws related to airlines.

Buttigieg emphasized the importance of holding airlines accountable and protecting passengers, especially in cases where flights are canceled and passengers are left stranded or forced to pay exorbitant fees for alternative travel arrangements. The states involved in this partnership include California, New York, Illinois, Colorado, Connecticut, and others, as well as the District of Columbia and two U.S. territories.

While the agreement is seen as a bipartisan effort, with only two Republican state officials signing on, Buttigieg expressed hope for more states to join. Consumer advocates have long pushed for expanded enforcement powers at the state level, citing a surge in complaints during the pandemic. Colorado Attorney General Philip Weiser highlighted the need for states to have the authority to investigate such complaints, even if Congress has not yet granted them that power.

Overall, this collaboration between the federal government and states marks a significant step towards ensuring the rights and protections of airline passengers across the country.