Maryland to Ban Surveillance Pricing, Impacting Grocery Costs for Millions
Maryland is set to become the first U.S. state to ban 'surveillance pricing' with the introduction of the Protection From Predatory Pricing Act. This legislation, which has been passed by Maryland lawmakers and is expected to be signed into law by Democratic Governor Wes Moore, aims to prevent retailers from using personal data to charge different prices to different customers for the same products. Surveillance pricing, also known as dynamic or personalized pricing, allows retailers to adjust prices based on individual consumer data such as purchase history and online behavior. The new law will prohibit large retailers from using such data to alter prices in real-time, although traditional sales, promotions, and loyalty discounts will still be permitted. Consumer advocacy groups have supported the bill but expressed concerns over certain exemptions that may limit its effectiveness. 
