The proposed bill aims to strengthen the Massachusetts Antitrust Act by prohibiting anticompetitive conduct and agreements. Key amendments include the removal of the definition of "New England" and the exclusion of real property transactions from the definition of "Trade or commerce." Additionally, the definition of "Trade or commerce" is expanded to include the recruitment, hiring, compensation, or retention of employees in any labor market. The bill also clarifies that the Massachusetts Antitrust Act applies only to activities with a competitive impact within the Commonwealth and shifts the burden of proof regarding jurisdiction to the party asserting a lack of jurisdiction.

Further provisions introduce significant penalties for violations, including fines up to one million dollars for corporations and up to one hundred thousand dollars for individuals, along with potential imprisonment. The Attorney General is granted authority to bring civil actions to prevent violations and secure monetary relief for affected individuals and entities. The bill also enhances investigative powers, allowing the Attorney General to issue civil investigative demands and ensuring that individuals providing testimony are subject to perjury laws. Overall, the bill seeks to bolster enforcement mechanisms and provide greater protection against anticompetitive practices in Massachusetts.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 93-2