Rep. Josh Gottheimer wants airline passengers to get cash back for a flight that is delayed for three or more hours.
The congressman made the announcement on Monday at Newark Liberty International Airport’s Terminal A.
Gottheimer, a Democrat, is pushing legislation that would also compensate travelers whose flights are canceled. His plan would not apply to weather delays. It would only impact those delays that are in the control of the airlines, including mechanical issues or staffing.
Gottheimer is speaking about the compensation plan after hearing the White House is considering rolling back consumer protections put in place by President Joe Biden.
“This means cash back in your wallets for the cost you bear and headache for missed connections. Paying for that extended parking or meals or having to book another airline or transportation,” said Gottheimer.
Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy was in New Jersey on Monday. He was asked about the rollback.
“I want to make sure that travelers are treated fairly. And we’re gonna make sure we have a fair rule that if we have a cancellation, you can get a refund if that happens to you,” Duffy said.
Gottheimer says he has reached out to Duffy to discuss consumer protections.