Bangkok:First paragraph of the news story.
According to Thai News Agency, the government has introduced a draft Accommodation Act aimed at overhauling existing accommodation laws to better align with modern tourism trends. The proposed reforms are designed to reduce regulatory obstacles for smaller businesses and new accommodation types, such as hostels, boutique hotels, and homestays, by categorizing them based on risk levels rather than applying a uniform standard.
The draft law, comprising 98 sections, introduces a "Super License" system to streamline the application process for accommodation businesses, potentially covering up to 10 related licenses under various laws. This initiative seeks to alleviate the burden on businesses by reducing the need for multiple licenses.
The new legislation also mandates the Department of Provincial Administration to implement an electronic system for application processes and complaint handling, facilitating easier access for both businesses and citizens. Additionally, accommodation operators must adhere to safety standards, including maintaining an electronic guest register and submitting guest data to relevant authorities every 24 hours.
Consumer protection is also a focus of the draft law. It allows users to cancel reservations and request refunds if accommodations do not match advertised descriptions. It also prohibits unfair booking conditions and requires businesses to include contract terms in their promotional materials.
A committee chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior will oversee the promotion of accommodation standards, with collaboration from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to enhance service quality and competitiveness in the tourism sector.
Public consultations were held, gathering input from stakeholders, with most supporting the draft's principles. However, some concerns were raised about criteria for Super Licenses and the integration of electronic systems. These observations will be considered in the final review of the draft law.