WRE News: Florida Bill Could End Hidden Restaurant Service Fees & Automatic Gratuities

Miami, FL – March 30, 2025 – A Florida bill could soon change how restaurants handle automatic gratuities, giving diners more control over their tipping.

House Bill 535, currently making its way through the legislature, would limit automatic gratuities to parties of six or more and require transparency about who receives the charges. If passed, restaurants must clearly disclose service fees on menus and receipts while allowing customers to opt out if dissatisfied with service. The bill, introduced by Rep. Demi Busatta, was inspired by her own confusion over hidden fees at a Miami restaurant.

For Miami’s dining scene, where automatic 18-20% service charges are common, this could mark a major shift. Supporters argue it increases transparency and prevents double tipping, while critics worry it could impact restaurant staff earnings. The bill still needs to pass more legislative hurdles before becoming law.