$1.25 Million Settlement Won in Texas Restricting Hotels from Adding Hidden Fees

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has just secured a $1.25 million settlement with the hotel giant Hyatt for unlawfully adding hidden fees to customers' bills.

Paxton's Lawsuit Against Hyatt

This all began back in May 2023 when Paxton first sued Hyatt for deceptive trade practices after the corporation was allegedly marking room prices differently than what was advertised to the public online.

Paxton's release from '23 went on to include that these fees, which included resort fees, amenity fees and daily room rates, were not disclosed until a later time when it would be less likely to raise any alarms to the customers.

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Many fees were also mandatory additions to visitors' bills regardless of whether they used the amenities like a fitness center or not.

What Happens Now that Hyatt is Called Out?

The terms of the million-dollar settlement are quite clear—Hyatt must "disclose any fees added on to the hotel room's price, allowing consumers to more efficiently shop and compare prices," Paxton's press release states.

Paxton's history with deceptive trade practices extends beyond Hyatt, having reached agreements with five other companies in the past: Marriott, Omni, Choice Hotels, Hilton, and Booking.com.

How Much are Hyatt Hotels in Texas?

In Lubbock, Texas, prices for one night at Hyatt Place near Texas Tech University are roughly $120-$130, including tax. This is the approximate price for two travelers renting just one room.

Hyatt does include breakfast and pool access in the upfront price.