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• Introduced by Sen. Deborah Cherry (D) on January 27, 2009, to prohibit “price gouging” during an emergency. “Price gouging” is defined as selling for an “unconscionable price” any essential commodities, supplies, services, provisions, or equipment needed as a direct result of the emergency, including the rental of a dwelling or a self-storage facility. “Unconscionable price” is defined as one that is a “gross disparity” compared to the pre-emergency price, and is not based on additional costs incurred, or on “international market trends.” Note: When demand for an item exceeds supply, rationing occurs either through higher prices, a government-administered allocation system, or on the basis of first-come-first-serve.
  • Referred to the Senate Commerce & Tourism Committee on January 27, 2009.