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Committee reports greenwashing bill that allows private enforcement without proving financial loss
Summary
House Bill 783, designed to address deceptive environmental claims (greenwashing), was reported out of committee 14-12. Critics said the measure allows almost any person to sue without alleging actual loss, and that existing federal and state laws already address deceptive practices.
The House Judiciary Committee reported House Bill 783 by a vote of 14 to 12. The bill seeks to hold companies accountable for deceptive environmental claims commonly called greenwashing, enabling private plaintiffs to bring claims without establishing an actual loss.
Representative Rabe, sponsor, said the bill is about "fairness and accountability" and that families deserve accurate information when making purchases. Counsel told the committee the bill takes effect in 60 days and had no amendments.
Opponents, including Chairman Kaufman and Representative Bonner, raised objections to the bill's broad private-right-of-action. Kaufman said the bill allows "virtually any person" to file a claim without alleging loss; Bonner said extensive federal and state laws already exist to address these complaints and questioned the necessity of new legislation. The committee recorded a 14-12 vote in favor; counsel said the bill will be reported as committed.
