Nevada Cracks Down on Reservation Resellers: New Bill Targets Unauthorized Appointment Sales

Nevada is taking a stand against the unregulated resale of appointments and reservations with Senate Bill 169, aiming to protect consumers and small businesses from exploitative practices. This legislation targets third-party platforms that profit by selling DMV appointments and restaurant reservations without authorization, often turning free services into costly commodities.

The bill mandates that any third-party reservation service must obtain explicit written consent from the original service provider before listing or selling appointments. Violations could result in civil penalties of up to $1,000 per day. This move is a response to the growing trend of platforms like Appointment Trader, which allow users to buy and sell reservations, sometimes leading to inflated prices and reduced accessibility for the general public.

While proponents argue that such platforms offer flexibility and convenience, critics highlight the negative impact on businesses and consumers. Restaurants like Golden Steer have reported instances where individuals hoard multiple reservations, leading to increased no-shows and operational challenges. Similarly, the DMV warns against purchasing appointments from unauthorized sources, citing risks of scams and data breaches.

Senate Bill 169 represents Nevada’s commitment to ensuring fair access to services and protecting its citizens from predatory practices. As the bill progresses, it underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the digital marketplace.

Source: FOX5 Vegas