WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Representatives Glenn "GT" Thompson (R-PA) and Kathy Castor (D-FL) introduced the bipartisan Timeshare Transparency Act. This legislation increases accountability and transparency in the timeshare industry, protecting consumers from misleading contracts, hidden fees, and vague exit options.
"Bad actors in the timeshare industry have made a business model out of confusing consumers with misleading contracts, while leaving unsuspecting families with little recourse," Rep. Thompson said. "Americans deserve clear and honest information when making significant financial decisions, rather than predatory and manipulative sales tactics. This bipartisan bill protects hardworking families, so they can safely invest in vacation experiences."
"The dream of a vacation ownership - a timeshare - too often comes with hidden fees, confusing terms and few options when costs spiral out of control for hardworking families," Rep. Castor said. "In Florida, where tourism is the foundation of our economy, families deserve clear prices and honest information, not fine print and expensive surprises, so that they can plan and budget with confidence. Instead, millions of Americans have found themselves locked into agreements with escalating costs and few ways to get out. The bipartisan Timeshare Transparency Act will establish commonsense safeguards so families can make informed decisions, avoid predatory practices and keep more of their hard-earned money in their pockets."
"Timeshare members and owners, including young families, seniors, veterans, and active-duty service members, have long waited for their voices to be heard. The Timeshare Transparency Act is the path forward that we and our volunteers have hoped for. This bill directly addresses the concerns we hear every day: no more hidden fees, no more confusing contracts, clear exit options and a 14-day penalty free cooling off period for every buyer. Better communication between consumers and developers is the foundation of a healthy industry. This bipartisan legislation puts that principle into action, and I applaud Congressman GT Thompson and Congresswoman Kathy Castor for championing transparency in the timeshare industry," said Irene Parker, Co-Founder of Timeshare Advocacy & Reform Disclosure Alliance, Inc. (TARDA)
Specifically, this legislation requires all timeshare agreements to: