Senator Charles Schumer is pushing for greater protections for airline customers from what he calls "frivolous costs."
It comes days after American Airlines became the second major carrier to charge customers for overhead luggage.
Schumer is pushing an upcoming federal aviation bill that would protect the economy traveler's right to use overhead bins for free, while blocking other exorbitant charges and restrictions.
The plan also has stronger requirements for airlines to be more transparent about charging fees.
Schumer says the goal is to discourage other airlines from burdening passengers with predatory charges:
"The airlines monetize every inch of the plane: smaller seats, less food, which they charge more for, charges for carry-ons," Schumer said. "One day, we all might be paying for the use of overhead bins no matter who you are and how you fly, costing all of us a lot more."
American Airlines will begin barring overhead bin usage by economy flyers starting next month.
United Airlines began charging travelers for overhead bins late last year.