Bill > S137

This bill, titled "Protecting consumers during a state of emergency," aims to prevent price gouging on essential goods and services when a state of emergency is declared. It defines "commodity" as items like food, water, fuel, and lumber necessary due to an emergency, and "dwelling unit" as any form of housing. An "unconscionable price" is established as a price that is significantly higher than the average price charged in the 30 days before the emergency declaration, unless the increase is due to legitimate factors like manufacturer discounts or increased costs directly related to the disaster. The bill makes it illegal to rent or sell these commodities or dwelling units at such unconscionable prices within the declared emergency area, with the prohibition lasting until the emergency declaration expires or is terminated, or for ten days after a federal disaster declaration. Price increases approved by a government agency are exempt, and violations are punishable by a fine of up to $5,000.