Can I charge different prices to different customers without violating discrimination laws in North Carolina? What are the requirements?

Charging Different Prices to Different Customers in North Carolina

In North Carolina, it is prohibited to charge different prices to different customers based on their race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, or foreign trade relationships under NCGS 75B-2 ^[1.3]. However, businesses can charge different prices based on other factors such as quantity, location, or membership status without violating discrimination laws ^[1.3].

Requirements for Compliance

To ensure compliance with North Carolina law, businesses should review their pricing policies and ensure that they are not discriminating against customers based on any protected characteristics ^[1.3]. It is important to note that violations of NCGS 75B-2 can result in civil actions for damages or injunctions, and willful violations can result in up to three times the amount of actual damages awarded to the injured party, as well as costs and reasonable attorney’s fees ^[1.4].

It is also important to note that NCGS 75B-7 states that the antitrust or anti-discrimination laws of the State are not superseded, restricted, or otherwise limited by this chapter ^[1.2].

Conclusion

In summary, businesses in North Carolina can charge different prices to different customers based on factors such as quantity, location, or membership status, but not based on protected characteristics such as race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, or foreign trade relationships. To ensure compliance with North Carolina law, businesses should review their pricing policies and ensure that they are not discriminating against customers based on any protected characteristics.

Source(s):

• [1.2] Chapter not exclusive.
• [1.3] Definitions.
• [1.4] Enforcement.

Jurisdiction

North Carolina

• General