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HB 1024

Unfair Sales Act; definition; low profit margins; effective date.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Bashore and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1024 tightens Oklahoma's Unfair Sales Act by redefining low-profit-margin sales to prevent larger retailers from underpricing competitors and pushing small businesses from markets.

Coauthored by Representative Provenzano
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1024

Legislative bill overview

HB 1024 modifies Oklahoma's Unfair Sales Act by adjusting the definition of what constitutes unfair or predatory sales practices, specifically focusing on profit margin thresholds. The bill establishes new standards for determining when below-cost or extremely low-margin sales practices constitute illegal unfair competition. This legislation appears designed to protect small retailers and independent businesses from aggressive pricing strategies by larger competitors.

Why is this important

Low-profit-margin sales practices can force small businesses out of markets by undercutting prices unsustainably. This bill addresses a real competitive dynamic where larger retailers with deeper pockets can absorb losses on certain products to drive out local competitors. The outcome affects consumer pricing, business viability, and market competition structures across Oklahoma's retail sector.

Potential points of contention

  • Consumer impact: Higher profit margin requirements could increase retail prices for Oklahoma consumers, potentially affecting affordability and purchasing power
  • Business definition disputes: Disagreement over what constitutes "unfair" versus legitimate competitive pricing, and how to distinguish loss-leader strategies (common in grocery retail) from predatory practices
  • Enforcement challenges: Determining profitability across diverse product categories and business models creates administrative complexity and potential litigation over compliance

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

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