Stop Disaster Price Gouging Act

# Stop Disaster Price Gouging Act Summary **What It Would Do** This bill aims to prevent businesses from dramatically raising prices on essential goods and services during and immediately after disasters or emergencies. If passed, it would establish federal penalties for price gouging—the practice of charging excessive markups on items like food, water, fuel, and emergency supplies when people are in crisis situations and have limited alternatives. The legislation would apply during declared emergencies and for a set period afterward. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily targets businesses and retailers that sell essential goods and services. It's designed to protect consumers during disasters who need to quickly purchase emergency supplies, often when supply chains are disrupted and competition is limited.

Many states already have their own price gouging laws, so this bill would establish a federal standard. **Current Status** As of now, the bill remains in committee and has not advanced further through Congress. This means it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House or Senate. The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Laura Friedman (D-CA).