Reopen public comment on surveillance pricing practices

The FTC's decision to withdraw the public comment period on retailers' surveillance pricing practices raises significant concerns. As the FTC's own study found, companies are frequently utilizing consumers' personal data like location and browsing history to individually tailor pricing in ways that could undermine competition and harm consumer welfare. This corporate practice of using data in such a way could increase inflation, something President Trump said he would bring down. Shutting down opportunities for public input on such a consequential issue undermines transparency and fails to prioritize the interests of the people over powerful corporate entities. The surveillance pricing tactics identified have the potential to "fundamentally upend how consumers buy products and how companies compete," according to the FTC's findings. Given the far-reaching implications for privacy, fairness, and the functioning of markets, it is imperative that the public has a voice in how these practices are evaluated and addressed. Closing off public comment prematurely forecloses a crucial avenue for consumers, advocates, and experts to share experiences and perspectives that should inform the FTC's approach. Protecting consumer interests and promoting honest competition should be paramount priorities for the FTC. Reopening the public comment period would demonstrate a commitment to these principles and an understanding that the perspectives of the people must be central to the FTC's decision-making on this critical issue. The public deserves a full and fair opportunity to be heard on surveillance pricing tactics that could profoundly impact their experiences as consumers.