The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry does not believe a state antitrust statute is needed for the Commonwealth and will vigorously oppose any proposal if any provision is more stringent than federal law.

Federal law prohibits contracts, combinations or conspiracies in restraint of interstate commerce. Violation under the federal law may result in criminal prosecution, and persons injured by the unlawful action(s) may bring a civil suit against parties engaging in such activities. The Attorney General may proceed under the federal law to recover damages on behalf of the citizens of that state.

The history of actions by the Pennsylvania Attorney General filed under federal antitrust laws shows that a state law is not necessary to protect consumers and would impose a severe economic burden on business. Various reasons exist to oppose any effort to legislate a state antitrust law, especially if its provisions go beyond the federal statute.