This bill amends the existing "Deceptive Trade Practices" law in Rhode Island by introducing new definitions and prohibitions related to pricing practices. It defines "dynamic pricing" as a pricing strategy that adjusts in real-time based on factors such as consumer demand, time of purchase, weather conditions, and other external conditions not specific to the individual consumer. It also defines "surveillance pricing" as price adjustments based on personal data collected about individual consumers, including geolocation data, personal characteristics, and browsing history.

The bill explicitly prohibits the use of both dynamic and surveillance pricing in transactions with consumers in Rhode Island, categorizing these practices as unfair or deceptive acts. It allows consumers harmed by violations of these pricing practices to pursue civil action for actual damages, liquidated damages, attorney's fees, and/or equitable relief. The Attorney General is granted the authority to enforce these provisions, including seeking injunctive relief, civil penalties, and restitution for consumers.

The act is set to take effect upon passage, with certain definitions and provisions effective from January 1, 2026, and others from March 31, 2026.

Statutes affected:
2428: 6-13.1-1