Maryland Bans Surveillance Pricing in Grocery Stores, Setting Precedent for Consumer Protection
Maryland has enacted a law prohibiting the use of surveillance pricing in grocery stores, becoming the first state in the U.S. to do so. This legislation, signed by Governor Wes Moore, prevents grocers and third-party delivery services from using personal data to set higher prices for consumers. Surveillance pricing involves adjusting product costs based on consumer data such as location and search history, leading to different prices for the same items. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has documented similar practices in other retail sectors. While the law targets grocery stores, it includes exemptions for loyalty programs and promotional offers, which critics argue could undermine its effectiveness. Consumer advocacy groups have expressed concerns about these loopholes and the law's enforcement provisions, urging for stronger consumer protections. 
