Bill > HR3209

This bill aims to promote competition and fairness in the app marketplace by establishing new rules for large app stores and operating systems. Specifically, the App Store Freedom Act would require companies that own both a major app store and its operating system (with over 100 million users) to allow users more flexibility, such as installing third-party apps and app stores, choosing alternative default apps, and hiding pre-installed apps. The bill prohibits these companies from requiring developers to use their in-app payment systems, from imposing unfair pricing restrictions, and from using non-public business information about app developers to compete against them. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) would be responsible for enforcing these regulations, with the ability to levy civil penalties up to $1 million per violation. State attorneys general can also bring civil actions on behalf of residents, though they must first notify the FTC. The bill does not prevent companies from protecting their intellectual property or addressing security concerns, and it does not preempt state laws related to contracts, torts, or fraud. The FTC is required to issue guidance within 180 days of enactment, and the law will take effect when that guidance is published, providing companies time to understand and implement the new requirements.

Business and Industry

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3209/all-info