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Bill Summary · SB 2908

Summary of SB 2908: Relating to Emergency Management

Bill Number: SB 2908
Introduced: January 19, 2024
Status: Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 759)
Related Bill: HB 2188 (companion)

Purpose and Intent

SB 2908 aims to enhance emergency management protocols in response to disasters by implementing specific measures to protect consumers and residents during emergencies. The bill seeks to address issues related to price increases and residential rent hikes that may occur during declared emergencies, ensuring that essential services and housing remain accessible and affordable.

Key Provisions

  1. Emergency Proclamations:

    • The bill establishes guidelines for the issuance of emergency proclamations, allowing for swift governmental response during disasters.

  2. Price Increase Prohibition:

    • It prohibits price increases on essential goods and services during a declared emergency, preventing price gouging that can occur in times of crisis.

  3. Residential Rent Increases:

    • The bill includes provisions that prohibit landlords from increasing residential rents during emergency declarations, thereby protecting tenants from sudden financial burdens.

  4. Enforcement Mechanisms:

    • The legislation outlines enforcement mechanisms for violations of the price increase and rent increase prohibitions, ensuring compliance and accountability.

Affected Parties

  • Consumers: Individuals purchasing essential goods and services during emergencies will benefit from protections against price gouging.
  • Tenants: Residents will be safeguarded from unexpected rent increases during emergencies, providing stability in housing.
  • Landlords: Property owners will need to adhere to the new regulations regarding rent increases during emergencies.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 19, 2024: Bill introduced.
  • January 22, 2024: Passed First Reading.
  • January 24, 2024: Referred to committees on PSM/CPN and JDC.
  • February 12, 2024: Reported from PSM/CPN with amendments; passed Second Reading.
  • February 29, 2024: Reported from JDC with recommendation for passage.
  • March 5, 2024: Passed Third Reading in the Senate.
  • April 5, 2024: Passed Third Reading in the House as amended.
  • April 9, 2024: Senate disagrees with House amendments.
  • April 18, 2024: House conferees appointed to resolve differences.

Conclusion

SB 2908 is a significant legislative measure aimed at improving emergency management practices by protecting consumers and tenants from unfair practices during disasters. The bill is currently in the conference stage, where House and Senate conferees will work to reconcile differences in the proposed amendments. If enacted, it will provide essential safeguards for residents and ensure fair pricing during emergencies.

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

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