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Bill

SB 368

Price gouging.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lola Smallwood-Cuevas

California SB 368 addresses price gouging through regulatory measures aimed at limiting excessive price increases on goods, balancing consumer protection with market operation concerns.

Returned to Secretary of Senate pursuant to Joint Rule 56.
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Bill Summary · SB 368

Legislative bill overview

SB 368 is a California bill addressing price gouging, introduced by Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas. The bill has advanced through committee hearings and amendments as of May 2025, though specific provisions aren't detailed in the action history provided.

Why is this important

Price gouging legislation affects consumer protection during emergencies and supply disruptions by potentially limiting dramatic price increases on essential goods. This intersects with broader debates about market regulation, business profitability, and consumer affordability.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition scope: What constitutes "price gouging" versus legitimate market pricing varies significantly; overly broad definitions could chill business investment and supply responses
  • Emergency vs. non-emergency periods: Whether price controls apply only during declared emergencies or extend to normal market conditions affects business planning and inflation dynamics
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Who investigates violations and what penalties apply raises questions about government resources and potential false accusation risks for businesses

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

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