Bill > HR2427

This bill establishes federal protections against price gouging during major disasters or emergencies declared by the President. Under the bill, sellers are prohibited from increasing prices more than 10 percent for essential consumer goods and services, hotel lodging, and residential rental properties for 30 days, and for repair or reconstruction services for 180 days after a disaster declaration. Sellers cannot charge prices more than 50 percent greater than their original cost. The bill allows some exceptions for price increases directly attributable to additional supplier costs, labor, materials, tariffs, or pre-existing contractual agreements. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) will enforce these provisions, treating violations as unfair or deceptive practices. State attorneys general can also bring civil actions on behalf of residents, and individuals who are harmed can sue for damages. Violators can face civil penalties up to $25,000 per violation, with a total maximum liability of $25,000. The bill defines "essential consumer goods and services" broadly, including food, emergency supplies, medical supplies, fuel, transportation, and construction materials. Any penalties collected will be deposited into a fund to assist communities affected by the disaster. Importantly, the bill does not prevent states from maintaining their own price gouging laws, as long as those laws do not conflict with this federal legislation.

Business and Industry

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2427/all-info