WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1996

TO AMEND THE CHILD LABOR LAWS ENACTED BY INITIATED ACT 1 OF 1914; TO ESTABLISH AN EDUCATIONAL ALTERNATIVE TO CIVIL PENALTIES FOR CERTAIN VIOLATIONS; AND TO CREATE EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS RELATED TO CHILD LABOR.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Zack Gramlich

HB 1996 updates Pennsylvania's consumer protection law, enhancing definitions and expanding unlawful acts to better shield consumers from deceptive practices in the marketplace.

Recommended for study in the Interim by the Committee on PUBLIC HEALTH, WELFARE AND LABOR COMMITTEE- HOUSE
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1996

Summary of HB 1996

Bill Number: HB 1996
Title: 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 and for unlawful acts or practices and exclusions.
Introduced: October 25, 2025
Status: Pending

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 1996 is to amend the existing Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law, which was originally enacted in 1968. The bill aims to enhance consumer protection by updating definitions and clarifying unlawful acts or practices within the realm of trade and commerce. This legislative effort seeks to ensure that consumers are better protected against deceptive practices and unfair competition in the marketplace.

Key Provisions

HB 1996 proposes several significant changes to the current law:

  • Updated Definitions: The bill seeks to revise and expand the definitions of key terms related to unfair trade practices. This includes clarifying what constitutes "unlawful acts" and "deceptive practices" to ensure they are relevant to contemporary market conditions.

  • Expanded Unlawful Acts: The legislation will enumerate additional practices deemed unlawful, thereby broadening the scope of consumer protections. This may include new forms of fraud or misleading advertising that have emerged since the original law was enacted.

  • Exclusions: The bill will also outline specific exclusions to the definitions of unlawful acts, providing clarity on what practices are not considered unfair or deceptive. This is intended to protect legitimate business practices while still safeguarding consumer interests.

Impact

The amendments proposed in HB 1996 are expected to have a wide-ranging impact:

  • Consumers: The bill aims to provide greater protection for consumers by making it easier to identify and report unfair trade practices. Enhanced definitions and clearer unlawful acts will empower consumers to take action against deceptive businesses.

  • Businesses: While the bill seeks to protect consumers, it also requires businesses to adapt to the updated definitions and regulations. Companies will need to ensure their marketing and sales practices comply with the new standards to avoid legal repercussions.

  • Regulatory Agencies: The bill may necessitate additional training and resources for regulatory agencies responsible for enforcing consumer protection laws, as they will need to familiarize themselves with the updated provisions.

Procedural Aspects

  • Sponsorship: The bill is sponsored by Representative Jeanne Mcneill, with cosponsorship from Representatives Ben Waxman, Carol Hill-Evans, Benjamin Sanchez, Steve Samuelson, and Ed Neilson.

  • Next Steps: As of now, the bill is pending and will undergo further review and discussion in the legislative process. Stakeholders, including consumer advocacy groups and business associations, may provide input as the bill progresses.

In summary, HB 1996 represents a significant update to Pennsylvania's consumer protection framework, aiming to enhance the legal tools available to protect consumers from unfair trade practices while balancing the needs of businesses operating within the state.

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

Sign in to ask a question.