The proposed General Assembly Committee Bill No. 3 seeks to strengthen consumer protection and safety through a series of new regulations concerning the advertising and sale of goods and services, the use of connected devices, and the repair of electronic and appliance products. Effective July 1, 2026, the bill prohibits businesses from advertising prices that exclude mandatory fees, requiring clear disclosure of all fees at the time of advertisement. It also establishes regulations for connected devices, mandating that providers inform consumers about the device's capabilities and implement security measures to protect personal information. Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions for the repair and maintenance of electronic products, requiring manufacturers to provide documentation and parts on fair terms for specified durations, while also clarifying liability protections for manufacturers and authorized repair providers.

Furthermore, the bill addresses pricing practices during periods of abnormal economic disruption, prohibiting excessive pricing in affected areas and empowering the Attorney General to enforce these provisions. It repeals existing language in Section 42-230 and replaces it with new definitions and enforcement mechanisms aimed at preventing price gouging during emergencies. The bill also mandates that municipalities register a ".gov" domain by July 1, 2027, to standardize their online presence. Overall, Committee Bill No. 3 aims to enhance consumer rights, ensure fair practices in the marketplace, and improve the enforcement capabilities of the Attorney General, with specific insertions and deletions made to existing statutes to achieve these goals.

Statutes affected:
Committee Bill: 42-230