Online Sellers’ Bill of Rights Act of 2026
Latest action (21 Jul 2026): Introduced
What this bill does
**H.R. 9799 — Online Sellers' Bill of Rights Act of 2026**
This bill would direct the Federal Trade Commission to adopt rules governing how large online marketplaces treat independent, third-party sellers. Key protections include limits on how long a platform can hold a seller's inventory or funds (generally no more than 30 days, absent proof of unlawful activity), written notice requirements within 72 hours when inventory or funds are held, at least 30 days' notice before making material policy changes affecting fees, listing rules, or eligibility requirements, and detailed disclosure obligations when a seller faces investigation or account suspension. It also establishes a presumption that sellers are not at fault absent evidence, placing the burden of proof on the platform.
The bill primarily affects "critical trading partners"—dominant online platforms with power to restrict sellers' access to customers or tools—and the third-party sellers who rely on them to reach buyers. Violations would be treated as unfair methods of competition under the FTC Act, enforceable by the FTC, by state attorneys general on behalf of residents, and through a private right of action allowing injured sellers to sue for triple damages and attorney's fees, even if they had signed arbitration agreements.
The bill was introduced on July 21, 2026, and referred to the House Judiciary Committee. It has not yet received a committee vote or floor action. If enacted, the FTC would have 180 days to issue implementing rules, and the law would take effect 180 days after enactment.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Official summary
This bill is in the first stage of the legislative process. It was introduced into Congress on July 21, 2026. It will typically be considered by committee next before it is possibly sent on to the House or Senate as a whole.
Common questions
- What does H.R. 9799 do?
- **H.R. 9799 — Online Sellers' Bill of Rights Act of 2026** This bill would direct the Federal Trade Commission to adopt rules governing how large online marketplaces treat independent, third-party sellers. Key protections include limits on how long a platform can hold a seller's inventory or funds (generally no more than 30 days, absent proof of unlawful activity), written notice requirements within 72 hours when inventory or funds are held, at least 30 days' notice before making material policy changes affecting fees, listing rules, or eligibility requirements, and detailed disclosure obligations when a seller faces investigation or account suspension. It also establishes a presumption that sellers are not at fault absent evidence, placing the burden of proof on the platform. The bill primarily affects "critical trading partners"—dominant online platforms with power to restrict sellers' access to customers or tools—and the third-party sellers who rely on them to reach buyers. Violations would be treated as unfair methods of competition under the FTC Act, enforceable by the FTC, by state attorneys general on behalf of residents, and through a private right of action allowing injured sellers to sue for triple damages and attorney's fees, even if they had signed arbitration agreements. The bill was introduced on July 21, 2026, and referred to the House Judiciary Committee. It has not yet received a committee vote or floor action. If enacted, the FTC would have 180 days to issue implementing rules, and the law would take effect 180 days after enactment.
- Has H.R. 9799 become law?
- Not yet. As of 21 Jul 2026, H.R. 9799 is introduced.
- Who sponsored H.R. 9799?
- H.R. 9799 was sponsored by Rep. Becca Balint [D-VT] (Democrat-VT), with 9 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on H.R. 9799?
- Introduced (21 Jul 2026).
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