SAN FRANCISCO, CA -- Labor and consumer groups are criticizing the airlines for a new skycap services fee. Until now, skycap service had been free and most travelers tipped the skycaps. Now that the charge has been imposed, travelers may think they're still tipping the workers, rather than paying a two or three dollar mandatory fee.

Labor leaders say that's cutting into the earnings of the skycaps, since tips usually make up about 40% of what skycaps make. Consumer groups say this is another example of how airlines are getting more money from passengers, without increasing fares. They say most passengers now choose a flight based on the fare, and those extra fees are not factored into the cost.

On Thursday Assemblyman Lloyd Levine of Los Angeles is introducing a state bill that would ensure skycaps keep any money they receive from airline passengers for transporting luggage. San Francisco Supervisor Tom Ammiano says he will call for similar legislation that would apply only at SFO.