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HD 921

An Act relative to surveillance pricing in grocery stores

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Kim Ferguson and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill bans grocery stores from using customer surveillance data to set individualized product prices, preventing discriminatory pricing based on personal information.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 921

Legislative bill overview

HD 921 would prohibit grocery stores from using dynamic pricing systems that adjust product prices based on individual customer data or purchasing behavior. The bill aims to prevent retailers from charging different prices to different customers for the same items at the same time, based on surveillance of their shopping habits or personal information.

Why is this important

Grocery pricing directly affects household budgets and food security, particularly for lower-income families. If retailers can identify price-sensitive customers and charge them more, or use demographic data to personalize prices, it could exacerbate economic inequality and unfair market practices in an essential sector.

Potential points of contention

  • Business opposition: Retailers argue dynamic pricing optimizes inventory management, reduces waste, and can lower prices for some customers; they may claim restrictions limit operational flexibility and increase costs
  • Definition and enforcement challenges: Determining what constitutes prohibited "surveillance pricing" versus permitted loyalty programs, promotions, or bulk discounts could be technically complex and costly to regulate
  • Market competitiveness: Opponents may argue that preventing dynamic pricing removes a competitive tool and could ultimately reduce consumer choice or raise baseline prices uniformly across the board

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

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