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Protecting Against Price Gouging During Crises and Disasters

This act aims to protect citizens from unfair price increases on essential goods and services during natural disasters, pandemics, or states of emergency. It empowers the Federal Trade Commission to prosecute sellers who drastically raise prices, ensuring access to necessary products during difficult times.
Key points
Price Gouging Ban: Sellers are prohibited from selling essential goods and services at unconscionably excessive prices during crises.
FTC Empowerment: The Federal Trade Commission gains new powers to prosecute unfair pricing practices, including against common carriers and non-profit organizations.
Reporting Hotline: A telephone and online hotline will be established for the public to report price gouging complaints, active during and after a crisis.
State Law Preservation: This act does not override existing state laws on price gouging, providing additional protection for citizens.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_3839
Sponsor: Sen. Klobuchar, Amy [D-MN]
Process start date: 2022-03-15
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Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Disaster and Emergency Pricing Abuse Prevention Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_S_3839.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2022-03-15.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Price Gouging Ban: Sellers are prohibited from selling essential goods and services at unconscionably excessive prices during crises.
  • FTC Empowerment: The Federal Trade Commission gains new powers to prosecute unfair pricing practices, including against common carriers and non-profit organizations.
  • Reporting Hotline: A telephone and online hotline will be established for the public to report price gouging complaints, active during and after a crisis.
  • State Law Preservation: This act does not override existing state laws on price gouging, providing additional protection for citizens.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Klobuchar, Amy [D-MN].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-29.

CATEGORIES

Courts and Law Economy