WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

B 26-0049

Seasonal Pricing and Price Gouging Amendment Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Phil Mendelson

Bill restricts price increases on essential goods during emergencies and seasons, aiming to prevent gouging while raising business concerns about revenue models and supply incentives.

Act A26-0298 Published in DC Register Vol 73 and Page 006785
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · B 26-0049

Legislative bill overview

Bill B 26-0049 would establish legal protections against price gouging during emergencies and regulate seasonal pricing practices in the District of Columbia. The bill aims to prevent excessive price increases on essential goods and services during declared emergencies or peak seasons when demand naturally rises.

Why is this important

Price gouging during emergencies (natural disasters, public health crises) can leave vulnerable populations unable to afford basic necessities like food, water, and medicine. Clear legal standards also create predictability for businesses about what constitutes illegal pricing versus legitimate market response, though defining that line remains contentious.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition challenges: Distinguishing between legitimate seasonal pricing (hotels raising rates in summer) and illegal gouging is legally complex and may inadvertently restrict normal business pricing flexibility
  • Emergency scope: Questions about which situations qualify as emergencies, who declares them, and how long protections apply could create enforcement ambiguity
  • Economic impact: Businesses argue price controls reduce supply incentives; economists debate whether caps help or harm availability of goods during crises
  • Seasonal business model effects: Industries like tourism and hospitality rely on seasonal pricing for annual revenue; overly broad restrictions could affect their viability

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

Sign in to ask a question.