Provides that stores offering food product discounts must provide the same discounts to in-store customers that are offered to customers using electronic digital coupons.

Rhode Island Bill Summary: Equal Discounts for In-Store Shoppers

This bill would require grocery stores and other food retailers in Rhode Island to offer the same sale prices and discounts to all customers, whether they are shopping in person or using digital coupons on a smartphone app or store loyalty program. In other words, if a store advertises a discount that can only be accessed by scanning a digital coupon or using an app at checkout, that same lower price would also have to be made available to customers who don't use those digital tools.

The bill is primarily aimed at protecting shoppers who may not own a smartphone, lack reliable internet access, or simply prefer not to use store apps or loyalty programs. Under current practice, some stores offer "digital-only" deals that customers must unlock through an app or website, meaning in-store shoppers without that technology can end up paying more for the same product. This bill would close that gap by treating all customers equally at the register.

This legislation would affect food retailers that currently use digital coupon programs, as they would need to adjust how they apply discounts — either by automatically applying digital prices for everyone or by having staff apply the discount upon request. Shoppers across Rhode Island, particularly older adults, low-income individuals, and those in areas with limited internet access, would be the primary beneficiaries. The bill is currently in committee and has been recommended for further study, meaning it has not yet moved forward to a full vote.