Maritz released its Industry Trends Report at IMEX America with some eye-popping data on the rising cost of hotels, airfares, F&B, and other event-budget elements.

Recent meeting cancellations in the U.S. connected with tensions in the Middle East raise important questions: Who is responsible for enhanced event security? And does a force-majeure clause cover a security-related cancellation?

Citing “escalating security concerns,” a Houston hotel backed out of hosting the U.S. Campaign for Palestinian Rights’ annual event less than two weeks out.

Several hotel companies are now voluntarily disclosing resort fees up front in the buying process. If finalized, a new FTC rule would mandate that online travel agencies and other booking channels do the same.

Will they or won’t they pass the federal budget? Government meeting professionals and planners whose attendees include a large number of federal employees will be scrambling if Congress shuts down the government this weekend.

Hyatt now faces a class-action suit alleging misleading pricing, and federal legislation has been proposed to drive hotel-cost transparency industry-wide.

NOAA forecasters have revised their predictions for the Atlantic hurricane season—check your force-majeure clauses.

Legal headaches for conference planners don’t start and end with attrition and force majeure. Industry attorney Joshua Grimes is eager to address some of the newest and most challenging questions.

For planners concerned about how strikes in Los Angeles or elsewhere could affect them, here’s some advice on negotiating stronger force majeure clauses.

Be prepared for how deposits, billing, rebooking, concessions, and more are being handled by meeting properties today.