The Antitrust Penalties Improvement Act aims to strengthen penalties for antitrust violations in Washington State to better protect consumers and ensure accountability among businesses. The legislation highlights the need for stronger penalties, noting that current civil penalties have not kept pace with inflation and are insufficient to deter unlawful anticompetitive practices. The act introduces new provisions that increase the civil penalties for violations of specific antitrust laws, allowing for penalties of up to three times the unlawful gains or loss avoided, and establishes an enhanced penalty of $5,000 for unlawful acts targeting specific demographic groups.

Key amendments to RCW 19.86.140 include the removal of previous penalty caps and the introduction of a more robust penalty structure. The act mandates that the Attorney General evaluate the effectiveness of these penalties every five years, ensuring that they remain adequate in deterring violations and adjusting for inflation. Additionally, the act is officially titled the Antitrust Penalties Improvement Act, reflecting its focus on enhancing consumer protection through stronger enforcement of antitrust laws.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 19.86.140
Substitute Bill: 19.86.140
Bill as Passed Legislature: 19.86.140
Session Law: 19.86.140