H.R. 10517, Consumer Protection / Airline Refund Rights. Quorum's AI analysis reads it as a net benefit — and names who gains.
H.R. 10517 · Net good
What it does
This bill requires airlines and foreign carriers to issue full cash refunds (including taxes and fees) to passengers when flights are cancelled, significantly delayed (3+ hours domestic, 6+ hours international), or substantially changed—unless the passenger accepts a rebooking or voucher. Airlines must refund credit-card purchases within 7 business days and cash purchases within 20 days. Passengers cancelling their own tickets 48+ hours before departure also get full refunds within 30 days. The rule applies to carriers with over $1.5 billion in annual revenue and foreign carriers serving the U.S.
The analysis names passengers (refund rights and faster payment timelines) — and 1 more group — among the beneficiaries.
The trade-off
Ticket agents become liable for refunds if they sold the ticket but lack passenger funds; the Secretary must issue regulations requiring carriers to transfer funds to agents—creating a new compliance and fund-transfer infrastructure.
Transparency scores 92%, with a medium warning level and no provisions unrelated to the bill's subject.
Who is behind it
Filed by Steve Cohen.
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