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State Antitrust Enforcement Venue Act of 2022

4/17/2024, 11:45 PM

Summary of Bill HR 3460

Bill 117 hr 3460, also known as the State Antitrust Enforcement Venue Act of 2022, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to amend the Clayton Act to allow state attorneys general to bring antitrust actions in the district court of their choosing, rather than being limited to the district court in which the defendant is located.

The bill aims to increase flexibility for state attorneys general in pursuing antitrust cases, allowing them to choose a venue that is most convenient and advantageous for their case. This could potentially lead to more efficient and effective enforcement of antitrust laws at the state level.

Proponents of the bill argue that it will empower state attorneys general to more effectively combat anticompetitive behavior and protect consumers. They believe that giving state officials more control over where they can bring antitrust cases will lead to better outcomes for both consumers and businesses. Opponents of the bill, however, raise concerns about potential forum shopping and the possibility of conflicting rulings in different districts. They argue that the current system, which requires state attorneys general to bring cases in the defendant's district, provides a level playing field for all parties involved. Overall, the State Antitrust Enforcement Venue Act of 2022 is a complex piece of legislation that seeks to address issues related to antitrust enforcement at the state level. It is currently being debated in Congress, and its ultimate impact remains to be seen.

Congressional Summary of HR 3460

State Antitrust Enforcement Venue Act of 2022

This bill limits the transfer and consolidation of antitrust cases that are brought by states in federal court.

Current law generally permits federal civil cases that are related to be transferred to a single district court and consolidated for pretrial proceedings. However, under current law, antitrust cases brought by the federal government are exempt from transfer and consolidation. This bill adds to that exemption antitrust cases brought by states.

Current Status of Bill HR 3460

Bill HR 3460 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since May 21, 2021. Bill HR 3460 was introduced during Congress 117 and was introduced to the House on May 21, 2021.  Bill HR 3460's most recent activity was Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 376. as of September 26, 2022

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 3460

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
80
Democrat Cosponsors
14
Republican Cosponsors
66
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 3460

Primary Policy Focus

Law

Potential Impact Areas

- Competition and antitrust
- Judicial procedure and administration
- Jurisdiction and venue
- State and local government operations

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 3460

State Antitrust Enforcement Venue Act of 2022
To amend title 28 of the United States Code to prevent the transfer of actions arising under the antitrust laws in which a State is a complainant.
State Antitrust Enforcement Venue Act of 2022
State Antitrust Enforcement Venue Act of 2021

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