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Bill

SB 1332

RELATING TO EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT.

2024 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

SB 1332 protects consumers by enforcing price controls on essential goods during emergencies, ensuring fair access and preventing price gouging.

Received notice of discharge of all conferees (Hse. Com. No. 457).
#emergencymanagement #pricecontrol #stateofemergency
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Bill Summary · SB 1332

Summary of SB 1332: Relating to Emergency Management

Bill Number: SB 1332
Introduced: January 21, 2025
Status: Received notice of discharge of all conferees (Hse. Com. No. 457)
Primary Sponsor: Kouchi
Related Bills: HB 1013 (companion), HB 1034 (companion)

Purpose and Intent

SB 1332 aims to enhance the state's emergency management framework by establishing provisions for price control during declared states of emergency. The bill seeks to ensure that essential goods and services remain accessible and affordable to residents during crises, thereby protecting public welfare and preventing price gouging.

Key Provisions

  • Price Control Measures: The bill introduces regulations that would allow the state to impose price controls on essential goods and services during a state of emergency. This is intended to prevent excessive pricing practices that could exploit vulnerable populations.

  • Emergency Declaration Procedures: SB 1332 outlines the processes for declaring a state of emergency, including the criteria that must be met and the duration of such declarations.

  • Enforcement Mechanisms: The bill provides for enforcement actions against businesses that violate price control regulations, including penalties and potential legal actions.

  • Coordination with Local Authorities: It emphasizes the need for coordination between state and local emergency management agencies to effectively implement these measures.

Impact

Affected Parties

  • Consumers: Residents will benefit from protections against price gouging during emergencies, ensuring access to necessary goods and services at fair prices.

  • Businesses: Retailers and service providers will need to comply with new pricing regulations, which may impact their pricing strategies during emergencies.

  • Emergency Management Agencies: State and local agencies will have enhanced authority and responsibilities in managing emergencies and enforcing price controls.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 21, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to committees AEN/WTL and WAM.
  • January 27, 2025: Bill received notice of discharge of all conferees, indicating progress in legislative discussions.
  • Multiple Conference Committee Meetings: The bill has undergone various amendments and discussions in committee meetings throughout 2023 and 2024, reflecting ongoing legislative engagement and adjustments.

Conclusion

SB 1332 represents a significant step towards strengthening emergency management in the state by addressing critical issues related to pricing during emergencies. By establishing clear guidelines and enforcement mechanisms, the bill aims to protect consumers while ensuring that essential services remain available and affordable in times of crisis.

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

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