Consumer Watchdog Alleges Industry Disinformation Led to Withdrawal of Surveillance Pricing Bill
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
[City, State] – September 5, 2025 – Consumer Watchdog, a prominent consumer advocacy group, has issued a statement expressing deep disappointment and concern over the withdrawal of Assembly Bill 446 (AB 446), a proposed piece of legislation aimed at regulating what the group describes as “surveillance pricing.” The organization asserts that the bill’s demise is a direct result of what they term “industry disinformation,” a campaign allegedly orchestrated by businesses to mislead lawmakers and the public.
AB 446, which had been under consideration in the [mention relevant legislative body, e.g., California State Legislature], sought to address practices where companies are accused of using consumer data to dynamically adjust prices, often resulting in higher costs for individuals based on their perceived willingness to pay. Consumer Watchdog argues that this pricing strategy is inherently unfair and exploits consumers by charging them more simply because their personal information suggests they might.
In their statement, Consumer Watchdog highlighted the bill’s potential to foster greater price transparency and fairness in the marketplace. They contend that by allowing companies to leverage extensive personal data to tailor prices, consumers are left at a disadvantage, often unaware of the differential treatment they are receiving. The organization believes that AB 446 was a crucial step towards rebalancing the scales and ensuring that consumers are not penalized for their online behavior or personal characteristics.
“We are profoundly saddened by the withdrawal of AB 446,” said [Name and Title of Consumer Watchdog Spokesperson, if available in the source, otherwise use a general title like ‘a spokesperson for Consumer Watchdog’]. “This bill represented a vital opportunity to protect consumers from manipulative pricing practices. Unfortunately, it appears that powerful industry interests have succeeded in obscuring the truth with a barrage of misleading claims, ultimately leading to the abandonment of this important legislation.”
Consumer Watchdog further alleges that the opposition to AB 446 was fueled by a concerted disinformation campaign. While the specific nature of this alleged disinformation is not detailed in the provided summary, such campaigns often involve misrepresenting the scope and impact of proposed regulations, exaggerating the potential economic harms, and creating a narrative that frames consumer protection measures as detrimental to innovation or economic growth.
The withdrawal of AB 446 leaves a void, according to Consumer Watchdog, in the ongoing effort to ensure fair and equitable pricing for all consumers. The group pledges to continue its advocacy work, seeking to educate the public about the implications of surveillance pricing and to push for legislative solutions that prioritize consumer well-being. They urge lawmakers to remain vigilant against industry-led misinformation and to champion policies that foster a more transparent and consumer-friendly marketplace.
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PR Newswire Policy Public Interest published ‘Industry Disinformation Kills Surveillance Pricing Bill: As a Result, AB 446 is Withdrawn, Says Consumer Watchdog’ at 2025-09-05 20:39. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.