[Butch Cassidy Slept Here]

I will give the benefit of the doubt to the airlines on this one (yes, I know, sounds unbelieveable.) HOWEVER--at the very least DOT regs should mandate a MINIMUM fine for violation of the existing rules on involuntary de-boarding and denied boarding. The existing pattern of a large fine which is bargained-down to almost nothing is absurd. The rules governing compensation to the customer for denied boarding/de-boarding should be re-examined. The levels of cash compensation should be adjusted upward. A customer should have the right to demand CASH (check) compensation with getting an argument, or threats, from the airline rep. Fines should also be imposed when an airline offers only a free flight voucher with the comment "take it or leave it," and refuses to pay cash.