NEW YORK CITY (WABC) -- New rules have been proposed to help stop Statue of Liberty tour scams in New York City.
The Department of Consumer Affairs announced the proposal to help protect consumers - especially tourists - on Wednesday.
The proposed rules for ticket sellers include:
-Ticket sellers would have to tell buyers if they don't include a stop at Ellis Island.
-They would be barred from selling a tour or trip ticket to a destination that they don't go to.
-They would also be prevented from charging for a tour that is available for free.
First-time offenders would face a $38 fine. That could grow to $500 for repeat offenses.
The Department of Consumer and Worker Protection will hold a public hearing Sept. 16 to give New Yorkers the opportunity to weigh in on the proposed rule changes.
----------