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H 3179

Unfair trade practices

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Gil Gatch

H 3179 - Unfair Trade Practices OverviewBill Number: H 3179 Title: Unfair Trade Practices Status: Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry Introduced: February 27,

Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry
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Bill Summary · H 3179

H 3179 - Unfair Trade Practices

Overview

Bill Number: H 3179
Title: Unfair Trade Practices
Status: Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry
Introduced: February 27, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The purpose of this bill is to expand the definition of unfair trade practices and strengthen enforcement mechanisms to protect consumers and businesses from deceptive or anticompetitive behavior. The legislation aims to address growing concerns about monopolistic practices, price gouging, and other unfair market tactics that harm competition and consumer welfare.

Key Provisions

  • Broadens the definition of "unfair trade practice" to include:
    • Excessive price increases during emergencies or supply chain disruptions
    • Abusive or coercive contract terms that limit consumer choice
    • Unjustified refusals to deal with or provide services to certain customers
    • Predatory pricing intended to drive out competitors
  • Empowers the state Attorney General to investigate suspected unfair trade practices and take civil enforcement action, including fines of up to $1 million per violation.
  • Allows private parties harmed by unfair practices to seek treble damages in civil lawsuits.
  • Requires large companies to report annually on their pricing policies, supply chain risks, and efforts to promote competition.
  • Establishes an Unfair Trade Practices Review Board to monitor market conditions and recommend legislative or regulatory changes.

Affected Parties and Impacts

This bill would impact a wide range of businesses, from large corporations to small and medium-sized enterprises, by subjecting them to greater scrutiny and potential penalties for unfair trade practices. Consumers would also benefit from increased protections against price gouging, deceptive marketing, and other harmful behaviors.

The reporting requirements and oversight mechanisms could increase compliance costs for affected businesses, but proponents argue these measures are necessary to maintain a fair and competitive marketplace. Critics contend the bill may create regulatory uncertainty and discourage innovation.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

H 3179 was introduced in the state legislature on February 27, 2025 and has been referred to the Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry for further consideration. The committee will hold hearings and debate the bill before deciding whether to send it to the full House for a vote. If passed by the House, the bill would then proceed to the Senate for additional review and potential amendments before a final vote.

Given the complex and controversial nature of the issues addressed, the legislative process for this bill is expected to be lengthy and subject to significant lobbying and public debate. The ultimate outcome remains uncertain, but the bill's supporters are hopeful it will gain traction as part of a broader push to rein

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

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