Bill > H0203

This bill amends Idaho's competition law to address monopsonies (markets where there's only one buyer) and introduces new regulations on pricing algorithms. The bill expands existing antitrust provisions to explicitly prohibit monopsonizing, which is similar to monopolizing but focuses on buying power instead of selling power. It adds a new section (48-119) that comprehensively regulates pricing algorithms, making it unlawful for service providers to facilitate agreements that reduce competition, use algorithms incorporating non-public data from multiple sellers or buyers, or set prices through algorithms that share sensitive information. The bill allows private legal action for businesses injured by artificial pricing and provides exceptions for market research firms and government-sponsored price cap systems. A pricing algorithm is defined broadly as any computational process that recommends or sets prices, including those using machine learning or artificial intelligence. The law will take effect on July 1, 2025, and allows courts to triple damages for intentional violations. The bill aims to prevent anti-competitive practices in the digital marketplace by restricting how businesses can use data and algorithmic pricing strategies.

Business and Industry

State Affairs Committee (H)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0203/