Home Depot, a prominent home improvement retailer, has been ordered to pay nearly $2 million to settle a lawsuit alleging that it overcharged customers at checkout. The settlement, reached in a California court, stems from allegations that the company frequently charged customers higher prices at the register than were advertised on shelf tags or the items themselves.

These discrepancies, often called “scanner violations,” were the subject of a civil enforcement case brought by several California district attorneys. The prosecutors argued that Home Depot’s practices constituted unfair competition and false advertising, undermining consumer trust and distorting the marketplace.

While Home Depot has admitted no wrongdoing in the settlement, it has agreed to pay a significant sum to resolve the allegations. The settlement includes a civil penalty of $1.7 million and an additional $277,251 for investigation costs and restitution to support future enforcement of consumer protection laws.

The settlement also requires Home Depot to implement measures to prevent future instances of overcharging. The company must ensure that its pricing systems are accurate and up-to-date, and it must conduct regular audits to identify and address any discrepancies. Additionally, Home Depot will be required to provide training to its employees on pricing practices and consumer protection laws.

The settlement is a significant victory for consumers affected by Home Depot’s overcharging practices. It sends a clear message to businesses that they must adhere to consumer protection laws and treat customers fairly.

As of September 19, 2024, the settlement is still pending final approval by the court. However, it is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks.