Price Gouging Prevention Act of 2025

Overview: HR 4528, the Price Gouging Prevention Act of 2025, was introduced in the House on July 17, 2025.

Purpose and Intent: The bill aims to prevent price gouging during emergencies and natural disasters by prohibiting the sale of essential consumer goods and services at unconscionably excessive prices.

Key Provisions:
- Defines "price gouging" as the sale of essential consumer goods or services at a price that is excessive and unjustified by the seller's costs.
- Prohibits the sale of essential consumer goods and services at prices that are more than 10% above the price charged prior to the emergency declaration.
- Grants the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) the authority to investigate and enforce violations, including the ability to seek civil penalties.
- Allows state attorneys general to bring civil actions against price gougers on behalf of their residents.

Affected Parties and Impacts: The bill would impact consumers by protecting them from excessive price increases on essential goods and services during emergencies. It would also affect businesses that may be subject to FTC enforcement and state-level lawsuits for price gouging.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations: HR 4528 has been introduced in the House and is currently pending consideration and potential referral to a committee for further review.