It will ensure that smaller independent travel agents , like myself, get out of the air travel business completely. Why, because this piece of crap legistration wants to hold not only the vendor providing they travel, but also the travel agents liable for the refund, even if they have NOT received the money but it went directly to the airline. This includes air purchased in packaged holiday deals.
It is meant for the Airlines and for the Expedia and other online booking engines that do indeed keep the funds hostage. But if you only acting as an agent, like many home based agents do these days, they are not taking your money for you but are merely paying it on your behalf to the provider. However this legistration wants to hold the agent, any agent liable, even IF they did not actually keep your funds, but just processed your transaction with the third party provider.
So in the scenario I book a travel package for a client and pay the vendor directly for the client. Any commission I receive is post travel. The vendor cancels a flight, and that consumer can demand a refund from the vendor, or any agent or agency involved. In my situation I didn't take or keep their money, I only provided it vendor. But I could now be responsible for refund if they can't get it back from the vendor.
Don't get me wrong I am all for refunds where the airline cancels, but write it so that it targets the right people. It is putting a coffin in the already limited home based agents they provide legit services and guidance that the online booking sites do not provide. Sure if you want to book from point A to B then book online, but if you are needing guidance and assistance to navigate a complex situation or unfamiliar territory, seeking a qualified agent is a good idea.