Seattle City Council approved the first nationwide ban on surveillance pricing for groceries. The ordinance passed 7-2 and starts in 2027. It aims to end hidden data tracking that sets prices but faces retailer warnings of higher costs.
Seattle has become the first city in the United States to ban surveillance pricing in stores. This week the city council voted 7 to 2 to pass Mayor Katie Wilson’s Fair Pricing and Transparency ordinance. The new rule will take effect in 2027 and stops businesses from using customer data to change prices in real time.
The measure targets so-called surveillance pricing, where stores track shoppers online and in person to adjust costs. Supporters believe this protects consumers from unfair and hidden practices. It marks a major step toward greater transparency in how groceries and other goods are priced.
Retail groups like the Washington Retail Association warned that the bill moved too fast. They fear it will raise prices for everyone and create big problems for stores. Many retailers say they need more time to prepare for the changes ahead.
Original Author: Mark Harmsworth | Source: FEE
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