Maryland Bans Surveillance Pricing, Other States Follow

0:00On April 29, Maryland just made history as the first state to ban surveillance pricing in grocery stores. That's when shops use your personal data like location, search history, or demographics to jack up prices just for you. Governor Wes Moore signed the bill into law this Tuesday, saying it's time to fight back against big companies squeezing every dollar out of us. This pricing trick hits groceries hard because food prices affect everyone, but the Federal Trade Commission has spotted it in clothing, beauty, and hardware stores too. Consumer groups say it's urgent here since it messes with access to affordable eats. Meanwhile, states like Colorado, California, Massachusetts, Illinois, and New Jersey are eyeing similar rules. At the federal level, the FTC investigated last year and found companies pulling data from all over to charge what you're willing to pay. But with the new chair calling that report rushed, don't expect quick action from Washington Critics aren't cheering though. They point to big exemptions for loyalty programs and promos that could let stores dodge the

1:04ban by hiking prices for. All then discounting individually. Groups like Consumer Reports call Enforcement Week with only the Attorney General able to sue, no private rights for folks. Instacar even quit the practice after getting exposed last year. As more states jump in, watch how they tighten these laws to plug the holes or risk letting sneaky pricing stick around in our carts.