CT HB05307

Repeals and replaces Section 42-230 of the general statutes effective October 1, 2021 to establish new price gouging prohibitions during emergency and disaster declarations.

Defines "unconscionably excessive price" as a gross disparity between pre-emergency pricing and pricing during the emergency period, provided the price increase is not attributable to the seller's additional costs.

Prohibits sellers throughout the chain of distribution from selling, renting, or leasing items at unconscionably excessive prices in areas subject to gubernatorial disaster or transportation emergency declarations, or presidential disaster or emergency declarations.

Establishes a maximum fine of $99 for violations and classifies any violation as an unfair or deceptive trade practice under Section 42-110b.

Price controls remain in effect until the Governor or President officially declares the precipitating event to be at an end.