WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 2626

An Act amending the act of December 17, 1968 (P.L.1224, No.387), known as the Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law, further providing for definitions.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz and 10 co-sponsors

HB 2626 would expand and clarify UTPCPL definitions of unfair or deceptive practices, broadening enforcement and consumer protections in Pennsylvania.

Re-committed to Rules
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2626

Overview

HB 2626 (Session 2025-2026, Pennsylvania) would amend the Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law (UTPCPL), formally known as the act of December 17, 1968 (P.L.1224, No.387). The proposed changes focus on expanding or clarifying definitions within UTPCPL to better address unfair methods of competition, unfair or deceptive acts or practices, and related consumer protection concerns. The bill has multiple co-sponsors.

Purpose and intent

  • Strengthen the scope and application of UTPCPL by revising key definitions to reflect contemporary consumer and market dynamics.
  • Enhance authorities for enforcement and civil actions against entities engaging in unfair or deceptive practices.
  • Provide clearer standards for determining when conduct constitutes an unfair trade practice, with potential implications for businesses, consumers, and regulators.

Key provisions and changes (as described by the bill’s title and typical UTPCPL amendments)

Note: The exact textual changes are not provided here, but the bill centers on “definitions” within UTPCPL. Anticipated areas of modification often include:
- Redefinition or expansion of what constitutes “unfair methods of competition.”
- Clarification or broadening of what constitutes “unfair or deceptive acts or practices.”
- Specifications related to consumer protection, marketplace conduct, and remedies.
- Potential alignment with federal guidance or modernization of terms to address digital commerce, data practices, and new business models.

Because the bill aims to amend definitions, the substantive impact would likely be in how UTPCPL cases are evaluated, what conduct qualifies as a violation, and how penalties, damages, and enforcement actions are pursued.

Who would be affected

  • Businesses and corporations operating in Pennsylvania, particularly those engaging in marketing, advertising, sales practices, customer interactions, or competitive behavior that could be deemed unfair or deceptive.
  • Legal professionals, in-house counsel, and consumer protection advocates who litigate UTPCPL matters.
  • State and local regulators responsible for enforcing UTPCPL and safeguarding consumer rights.
  • Consumers, who could gain enhanced protections and remedies in instances of unfair or deceptive practices.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • The bill follows the normal legislative process for Pennsylvania bills, commencing with committee consideration, potential amendments, and votes in both chambers before any potential signature by the Governor.
  • If enacted, the definitions would become enforceable as part of UTPCPL, subject to any prospective or transitional provisions the bill includes (e.g., effective date, savings clauses for ongoing actions, or fixes for pre-existing claims).

Practical implications

  • For businesses: A potential expansion of what is considered an unfair or deceptive practice could increase compliance obligations and scrutiny of marketing, advertising, and sales practices.
  • For consumers: Potential for broader relief options and clearer standards for determining when a business’s conduct violates UTPCPL.
  • For the legal landscape: May lead to more UTPCPL actions or settlements as enforcement agencies and private plaintiffs test the updated definitions in court.

Notes

  • This summary is based on the bill’s scope as described (definitions under UTPCPL). For precise effects, readers should consult the bill’s text to identify exact definitional changes, transitional provisions, and any related amendments to enforcement mechanisms or remedies.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.