California AB 1776 Expands Antitrust Suits, Letting Private Lawyers Target Businesses
Updated
Updated · OCRegister · Aug 12
California AB 1776 Expands Antitrust Suits, Letting Private Lawyers Target Businesses
1 articles · Updated · OCRegister · Aug 12
Summary
AB 1776 would create a new California standard for suing a single company over alleged monopolistic conduct, broadening antitrust exposure beyond current enforcement.
The bill would let private plaintiffs’ lawyers—not just the state attorney general—bring those cases, making routine practices such as discounts, promotions and rewards programs potential lawsuit targets.
Small businesses could still face heavy legal costs even with an exemption, because they may have to prove eligibility only after being sued and drawn into document demands and prolonged litigation.
Supporters frame the measure as a check on corporate power, but critics say it would reach restaurants, retailers, franchises and family-owned firms statewide and ultimately raise costs for consumers.