SIIA Joins Opposition to SB 259 Over Online Pricing Restrictions

The Software and Information Industry Association (SIIA) has joined the California Chamber of Commerce and others in opposing SB 259 (Wahab), the so-called Fair Online Pricing Act, which would impose sweeping restrictions on businesses that use dynamic or algorithmic pricing models. The bill prohibits the use of common data inputs-such as device type, software, and geolocation-to generate online prices, forcing costly overhauls of legitimate pricing systems that benefit both businesses and consumers through real-time, competitive pricing and personalized discounts.

SIIA is particularly concerned that the bill overlooks existing privacy safeguards under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), which already gives consumers strong rights over their personal data and protects against discriminatory pricing. SB 259's vague and burdensome disclosure mandates could overwhelm consumers, expose proprietary business data, and limit innovation-ultimately harming small businesses and driving up prices for all.