HB 2213 Summary

• Amends Arkansas Code § 4-75-501 to exempt discounts and rebates offered without charge on a nondiscriminatory basis to all members of the public or to specified groups from price discrimination restrictions.

• Permits retailers to offer discounts to designated groups including senior citizens, students, and current or former armed forces members, provided the group is not defined by race, color, sex, religion, or national origin.

• Protects retailers from liability for penalty claims related to discount programs implemented in the past where customers chose not to participate or were ineligible.

• Establishes the act is retroactive to January 1, 2012, providing protection for prior discount programs.

• Declares an emergency clause citing the importance of discount and rebate program availability to Arkansas consumers and economic stimulation, with approval effective April 3, 2017.