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H 1259

An Act relative to price-fixing prohibition, consumer transparency & tax fairness

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul McMurtry and 1 co-sponsor

H 1259 - An Act relative to price-fixing prohibition, consumer transparency & tax fairness OverviewBill Number: H 1259 Title: An Act relative to price-fixing prohibition, consumer

Accompanied a study order, see H4931
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Bill Summary · H 1259

H 1259 - An Act relative to price-fixing prohibition, consumer transparency & tax fairness

Overview

Bill Number: H 1259
Title: An Act relative to price-fixing prohibition, consumer transparency & tax fairness
Status: Hearing rescheduled to 10/30/2025 from 10:30 AM-02:00 PM in A-2. Hearing updated to New End Time.
Introduced: February 27, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goals of this bill are to:

  1. Strengthen prohibitions on price-fixing and other anti-competitive practices by businesses.
  2. Improve transparency around pricing and taxes for consumers.
  3. Ensure more equitable and fair application of state and local taxes.

The bill aims to protect consumers from unfair pricing tactics and promote a more competitive, transparent marketplace.

Key Provisions

  • Expands the state's price-fixing laws to cover a broader range of industries and business practices.
  • Requires all businesses to clearly display the total price of goods/services, including all taxes and fees, at the point of sale.
  • Mandates that businesses provide itemized receipts detailing the breakdown of the total price.
  • Prohibits businesses from charging different prices for the same goods/services based on a customer's location or other demographic factors.
  • Directs the state Department of Revenue to conduct audits and enforce more uniform application of state and local taxes.
  • Establishes penalties and fines for businesses found in violation of the new pricing and tax requirements.

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Consumers will benefit from increased pricing transparency and protection from unfair business practices.
  • Businesses, especially large retailers and service providers, will need to adjust their pricing and billing practices to comply with the new requirements.
  • State and local tax authorities will have additional oversight and enforcement responsibilities to ensure equitable application of taxes.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

The bill is currently scheduled for a public hearing on October 30, 2025 from 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM in committee room A-2. The hearing time has been updated to a new end time. After the hearing, the committee will consider the bill and potentially recommend it for a full floor vote in the state legislature.

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

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