Technology (Consumer Data Protection)

This bill prohibits eating establishments and grocery stores in Maine from using dynamic pricing, which changes prices based on demand, weather, consumer data, or AI algorithms. It requires fixed prices for at least one business day, visible to customers through menus, price tags, or displays. Excluded from the ban are standard discounts, limited-time specials (like lunch menus), and market-based pricing for traditionally volatile goods such as seafood (set only once daily). Violating this rule is classified as an unfair trade practice under Maine law.

LD 1284 repeals Maine's existing law (35-A MRSA c. 94) that required broadband internet providers to protect customer personal information and prohibited them from using, selling, or sharing that data without the customer's express, affirmative consent. This bill directly affects broadband providers and their customers by removing these privacy safeguards. The key provision eliminates the requirement for providers to obtain explicit customer permission before handling personal data. As a result, broadband companies would no longer be legally bound to seek customer consent for using or sharing their personal information.