AZ HB2079

Establishes legal definition of "abnormal market disruption" as significant disruption to essential goods or services (food, water, fuel, shelter, transportation, medical supplies) caused by natural or man-made emergencies in a specific geographic area.

Allows application of price controls when abnormal market disruption is declared by the U.S. President, Arizona Governor, or found by a state court within 48 hours of petition by the Attorney General or local prosecutors; each declaration lasts up to 10 days and may be renewed twice.

Prohibits unconscionable pricing during declared emergencies, with prima facie violation defined as charging 10 percent or more above the average price charged during the 30 days before the declaration.

Criminalizes hoarding (withholding, obstructing, or placing unreasonable restrictions on delivery or sale of essential goods) as a class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 6 months incarceration and fines up to $2,500 per incident for individuals or $20,000 per incident for businesses.

Establishes consumer education revolving fund to be administered by the Attorney General, funded by fines and disgorged profits from violations, with monies used for public notices and consumer education.