This legislation amends Section 4C(a)(1) of the Clayton Act to expand the enforcement powers of State attorneys general. It specifically allows them to bring a civil action for damages as parens patriae , acting on behalf of their state's citizens. Currently, this authority is primarily used for violations of the Sherman Act. The amendment extends this power to cover injuries resulting from price discrimination , which is prohibited under the Robinson-Patman Act amendments to the Clayton Act. This change aims to strengthen the ability of states to combat unfair pricing practices, thereby promoting fair competition and protecting consumers and small businesses from economic harm.
This legislation amends Section 4C(a)(1) of the Clayton Act to expand the enforcement powers of State attorneys general. It specifically allows them to bring a civil action for damages as parens patriae , acting on behalf of their state's citizens. Currently, this authority is primarily used for violations of the Sherman Act. The amendment extends this power to cover injuries resulting from price discrimination , which is prohibited under the Robinson-Patman Act amendments to the Clayton Act. This change aims to strengthen the ability of states to combat unfair pricing practices, thereby promoting fair competition and protecting consumers and small businesses from economic harm.