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H 469

An Act in relation to prohibiting price gouging with respect to goods, services and supplies during a declared public health emergency

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Alyson Sullivan-Almeida and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill prohibits excessive price increases on essential goods and services during public health emergencies to protect consumers from exploitation during crises.

Accompanied a study order, see H5080
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Bill Summary · H 469

Legislative bill overview

H 469 would prohibit price gouging on goods, services, and supplies during declared public health emergencies in Massachusetts. The bill aims to protect consumers from excessive price increases during crisis periods when demand spikes and supply may be constrained. Specific enforcement mechanisms and penalty provisions would need to be detailed in the bill's full text.

Why is this important

Price gouging during emergencies—such as during COVID-19 or natural disasters—can create severe hardship for vulnerable populations and undermine public health response efforts. Massachusetts consumers experienced documented price increases on essential items like hand sanitizer, masks, and groceries during the pandemic. Establishing clear legal prohibitions can deter exploitative pricing while balancing concerns about supply chain disruptions and business viability.

Potential points of contention

  • Defining "gouging": Determining what constitutes an illegal price increase versus legitimate market response to scarcity is legally complex and contentious; thresholds (e.g., 10% above normal price) are arbitrary
  • Business impact and supply incentives: Critics argue price controls discourage suppliers from redirecting inventory to emergency zones and may reduce willingness to maintain strategic reserves, potentially worsening shortages
  • Enforcement challenges: Identifying comparable pre-emergency prices, distinguishing legitimate cost increases, and proving intent to gouge creates administrative and litigation burdens for regulators and businesses

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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