Travel Industry Regulation and Compliance
Businesses in the travel industry must comply with many regulations and laws. In addition to legal compliance in the location where they operate, travel businesses must also be familiar with laws in host locations. Every state and country has different regulations that companies must comply with if they offer services within their borders.
It can be difficult to ensure compliance with an array of legislation throughout the United States and internationally. If you are operating a business within the travel industry, you should have general counsel on hand to answer your questions about travel industry regulation and compliance.
The Ment Law Group, PC has extensive experience working in the travel industry as well as with clients who operate tourism-related businesses. We can help you navigate the complex rules and regulations that must be recognized. Call us today at 866-MENT-LAW, or use our online form to schedule a consultation.
Seller of Travel Laws
Certain states are known as “seller of travel” states. These locations have enacted registration programs and financial security requirements for travel companies, travel agencies, tour operators, and others. If you sell travel to residents of those states, you must comply with specific laws prior to selling or offering to sell travel services to consumers.
Currently, only five states have seller of travel registration requirements – California, Florida, Hawaii, Iowa, and Washington. It is important to stay up to date on the regulations and legal requirements in these states and others in which you operate. If you fail to comply with seller of travel laws, you may be subject to fines and other penalties.
Financial Security Requirements in the Travel Industry
Many states, including seller of travel states, require businesses in the travel industry to prove financial security. This may include purchasing liability insurance or a bond to cover certain situations with consumers. In some states, a letter of credit, certificate of deposit, or trust account meets proof of financial security requirements.
When operating in multiple states, you need a travel lawyer who is familiar with the requirements of a variety of geographic locations. The Ment Law Group, PC offers services to companies nationwide, as well as those businesses that operate overseas. We can ensure that you meet the legal requirements of all the host locations in which you do business.
DOT Advertising Rules
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) enforces advertising rules on airlines and other businesses in the tourism industry. Their goal is to help travelers understand advertising and encourage fair and honest communication between travel businesses and customers.
A skilled travel attorney can help you remain in compliance with DOT advertising rules. Attorney Jeffrey Ment was a sales manager for two major airlines, and he thoroughly understands the DOT advertising rules that you must follow. We can guide you through developing effective policies and dynamic advertising campaigns that comply with regulations.
DOT Baggage Rules
Whether you directly assist customers during their travel or provide services before or after their trips, it’s important to be familiar with DOT baggage rules. You must comply with these regulations or help your customers understand the requirements as they travel.
Although airlines are primarily concerned with DOT baggage rules, even travel agents will need to assist customers who have questions. You may want to create a guidance sheet for travelers to answer frequently asked questions about baggage.
We can help you with the following issues regarding baggage:
- Reporting mishandled baggage
- Enhancing traveler protections
- Limits on baggage
- Safety tips for travelers
- Guidance for travel business and airline employees
- Enforcement orders regarding baggage rules
- Negotiating penalties with government agencies
