An Act in relation to prohibiting price gouging with respect to goods, services and supplies during a declared public health emergency
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill prohibits businesses from charging excessively high prices for essential goods, services, and supplies during a declared public health emergency in Massachusetts. The goal is to prevent price gouging and ensure that residents have access to necessary items at reasonable costs when facing a crisis. The legislation focuses on protecting consumers from unfair pricing practices during times of emergency. It builds upon previous attempts to address this issue.
Key provisions
- Defines ‘price gouging’ in the context of declared public health emergencies.
- Establishes penalties for businesses found to be engaging in price gouging.
- Applies to a wide range of goods, services, and supplies.
- Requires the Attorney General to investigate and prosecute violations.
- Allows for civil penalties and potential criminal charges.
- Defines ‘declared public health emergency’ for the purposes of the law.
- Specifies that the law applies during a declared public health emergency.
- Creates a process for reporting suspected price gouging.
Who is affected
- Consumers in Massachusetts
- Businesses selling goods and services
- The Attorney General's office
- Retailers
- Healthcare providers
Notable changes
- This bill builds on previous legislation aimed at preventing price gouging during emergencies.
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
3 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
Steven George Xiarhos
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