The bill H.371 proposes a moratorium on the use of electronic shelf labels and dynamic pricing by retailers selling consumer commodities in Vermont, effective until January 15, 2027. During this period, the Secretary of Agriculture, Food and Markets is tasked with reporting to the General Assembly on the implications of these technologies and how to safeguard consumers. The bill includes definitions for key terms such as "dynamic pricing," which refers to the use of artificial intelligence to adjust prices on electronic shelf labels, and "electronic shelf labels," which are digital systems used to display product prices at the point of sale.

Once the moratorium expires, the bill allows retailers to use electronic shelf labels but prohibits them from employing dynamic pricing while open to the public. Retailers must also wait at least 24 hours before altering the retail or unit price of a consumer commodity. The Secretary is required to submit a report by January 15, 2026, detailing the operation of electronic shelf labels and dynamic pricing, national standards for their regulation, and recommendations for consumer protection against unfair pricing practices. The bill's provisions will take effect in stages, with the moratorium and reporting requirements effective upon passage, while the allowed use of electronic shelf labels and dynamic pricing will commence on January 16, 2027.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 6-681