Antitrust
The Attorney General is responsible for enforcing state and federal anti-trust laws to ensure an open and honest marketplace. The Commercial Enforcement Division enforces laws that prohibit collusive business practices such as price-fixing, and may initiate litigation to seek penalties and to recover damages on behalf of the State and consumers. Members of the division also review proposed mergers, acquisitions, and other business plans to ensure that such proposals do not threaten competition.
In some cases, individuals who have been harmed by illegal practices may be entitled to compensation. In the event of a settlement, a web site or information line may be established to assist consumers in determining whether they are eligible for benefits. Contact information for any current settlements can be found on our settlements page.
The antitrust laws prohibit unreasonable restraints of trade. Utah’s Constitution and the Utah Antitrust Act, like the federal antitrust laws, prohibits conspiracies to restrain trade and attempts to monopolize trade or commerce.
The Attorney General’s staff investigates conspiracies to restrain trade and analyzes mergers to determine whether free-market competition is being threatened. The office files lawsuits to halt ongoing conspiracies or prevent anti-competitive mergers, and seeks restitution and penalties from violators.
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