Allow Antitrust Class Actions

What's happening

Why it matters

1. 1

   Expands Access to Justice for Consumers and Small Businesses. By allowing antitrust damages to be recovered through class actions, the bill enables individuals and smaller entities—who might otherwise lack the resources to sue large corporations—to pool their claims and seek redress collectively.

2. 2

   Increases Deterrence Against Anti-Competitive Practices. The threat of large, class-based lawsuits could make companies more cautious about engaging in price-fixing, monopolistic behavior, or other anti-competitive practices, knowing they could face more substantial financial penalties.

3. 3

   Aligns New York Law with Other Jurisdictions. Many other states and federal law already permit antitrust class actions. This change brings New York in line with broader national standards, potentially making enforcement more consistent and robust.

4. 4

   Potential for Larger Settlements and Systemic Change. Class action suits can lead to significant settlements or judgments, which not only compensate victims but may also prompt companies to change their business practices to avoid future litigation.

Who cares

• Consumers and businesses seeking antitrust damages

  The bill would allow them to recover damages under the state antitrust law through a court-authorized class action.

• Companies facing state antitrust claims

  They could face damages claims brought as class actions rather than only individual suits.

• Attorneys handling antitrust litigation

  The bill would expressly permit recovery of these damages in class actions authorized under Article 9 of the Civil Practice Law and Rules.

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