By Bob Katzen

Rep. Josh Cutler (D-Duxbury) filed a bill that would allow consumers to sue for up to triple damages any travel company, travel agency, tour business or travel agent that fails to provide a full refund of money to the consumer for any school-related educational trip, tour or excursion canceled as a result of COVID-19 or other declaration of emergency.

“The bill was originally filed after a group of parents came to me when their school’s 8th grade bus trip was cancelled and the company withheld $250 from each student’s deposit,” said Cutler. “I have subsequently heard from many other parents and learned this practice may be even more widespread. The deck is often stacked against students and their parents in this scenario and this bill would help to level the playing field.”