Maryland Enacts Law Against Personalized Grocery Pricing

The Maryland grocery pricing law, enacted under the Protection From Predatory Pricing Act (House Bill 895), will take effect on October 1, 2026. This law prohibits major grocery stores and delivery services from using personal data to set individualized prices for consumers.

Maryland is the first state to implement such a ban, which aims to prevent the exploitation of consumer shopping habits and personal data by algorithms. The law specifically targets grocery retailers with facilities of at least 15,000 square feet and third-party grocery delivery platforms.

While it bans charging higher prices based on personal data, it allows traditional sales, digital coupons, and promotions. Enforcement will be managed by the Consumer Protection Division of the Maryland Attorney General’s Office, with violators facing fines up to $10,000 per violation.

This legislation represents a significant advancement in consumer rights, addressing concerns over automated price discrimination in the grocery sector.