The proposed bill aims to prohibit surveillance-based price discrimination and surge pricing for retail grocery goods in Washington State. It establishes a new chapter in Title 19 RCW, which includes definitions of key terms such as "algorithm," "surveillance pricing," and "surveillance-based price discrimination." The legislation emphasizes the need for fair pricing practices that are not influenced by consumer profiling or data collection. It mandates that prices for goods must be clearly posted and prohibits the use of dynamic pricing models that alter prices based on consumer behavior or characteristics. Additionally, the bill introduces a four-year moratorium on the use of electronic shelf label systems in grocery stores larger than 15,000 square feet to protect consumer privacy and ensure pricing transparency.

Furthermore, the bill outlines that violations of these provisions will be considered unfair or deceptive acts under the consumer protection act, reinforcing the importance of equitable pricing in the retail sector. The Department of Commerce is tasked with studying the impact of electronic shelf label systems on pricing transparency and employee job security, with a report due by June 30, 2029. The legislation is designed to enhance consumer trust and access to grocery goods while addressing the challenges posed by data-driven pricing strategies.