A Democratic lawmaker introduced a bill Tuesday aimed at preventing airlines from involuntarily bumping passengers off a flight to make room for others.
According to The Hill, Rep. Jan Schakowsky, D-Ill., unveiled the Board Fairly Act. It would still allow airlines to overbook flights, but it would allow them to offer higher compensation to passengers willing to voluntarily give up their seat and take a different flight.
The legislation comes more than two weeks after a United Airlines passenger was bloodied and dragged off a plane by his arms after he refused to give up his seat so non-paying United employees could board the flight. David Dao has since hired two lawyers and is expected to file a lawsuit.
"The treatment of Dr. David Dao on United Airlines Flight 3411 demands a permanent response," Schakowsky said, The Hill reported. "My bill says no more involuntary bumping — period."
The piece of legislation would give airlines the power to raise their ceilings on how much money they offer passengers to give up their seat when a flight is too full.
"My bill, the Board Fairly Act, will ensure that is the case," Schakowsky said. "It is time for airlines to start treating their customers with respect."
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