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Pennsylvania House of Representatives
02/10/2025 05:31 AM
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?SPick=20250&chamber=H&cosponId=43939
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House of Representatives
Session of 2025 - 2026 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted: December 6, 2024 09:59 AM
From: Representative Steven R. Malagari
To: All House members
Subject: Prohibiting Grinch Bots (former HB1378)
 
When a new product enters the marketplace, bad actors will use software known as “Grinch Bots” to automatically buy up products and resell them for higher than the list price. This frustrating hoarding process is bad for consumers and bad for business. This occurred with popular purchases such as the PlayStation 5 and Taylor Swift concert tickets, making it extremely difficult for patient consumers to purchase the products they have been waiting for. The General Assembly needs to ensure Pennsylvania’s consumers have the right to a fair marketplace.
 
I will be introducing legislation that would prevent scalpers from using software to purchase items over the internet in bulk for the purpose of resale and not personal use. This legislation would make it unlawful to circumvent a security measure, access control system, or other technological control that enforces posted purchasing limits online. With this important legislation, we can ensure everyone has a fair shot when shopping online.
 
As representatives, it is our duty to stop predatory miscreants from trying to manipulate our economy. Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation.

Former Co-Sponsors:  MADDEN, CIRESI, HILL-EVANS, SANCHEZ, KINKEAD, CERRATO, WARNER, BRIGGS, MADSEN, GAYDOS, PIELLI, GERGELY, McANDREW, HADDOCK, FLOOD, DONAHUE, PISCIOTTANO, SALISBURY, T. DAVIS, GALLAGHER, GIRAL AND JAMES.