Maryland bans surveillance pricing in grocery stores

8 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Apr 29

Governor Wes Moore signed the law, which prohibits grocers and delivery services from using personal data to set higher prices.
The law includes exemptions for loyalty programs and promotions, and only the state attorney general can enforce it, drawing criticism from consumer advocates for weak enforcement and potential loopholes.
Other states like Colorado and California are considering similar measures, while federal action remains unlikely; critics warn Maryland's law could become a flawed model for future legislation.

Could Maryland’s new law truly stop companies from secretly charging you more based on your personal data, or are the loopholes too big?

How are other states and the federal government responding to the rise of personalized pricing, and could we see a national standard soon?

With enforcement limited to the attorney general, what recourse do consumers have if they suspect unfair pricing under the new law?

How might digital shelf labels change the game for surge pricing, and are current safeguards strong enough to protect consumers?

Could algorithmic pricing ever be used to benefit consumers, or does it inevitably lead to discrimination and higher costs?