California SB493 prohibits price gouging on essential goods and services during emergencies.

California SB493 amends the Penal Code to prohibit price gouging on essential consumer goods and services during emergencies. It limits rental price increases to 10% during emergencies, with exceptions for certain costs. It also restricts price increases on goods and services like food, medical supplies, and building materials to 10% above pre-emergency prices. The bill allows for extensions of these prohibitions and provides affirmative defenses for price increases due to specific costs. Violations are misdemeanors with penalties including fines and imprisonment.

California SB493 prohibits price gouging on essential goods and services during emergencies.

California SB493 amends the Penal Code to prohibit price gouging on essential consumer goods and services during emergencies. It limits rental price increases to 10% during emergencies, with exceptions for certain costs. It also restricts price increases on goods and services like food, medical supplies, and building materials to 10% above pre-emergency prices. The bill allows for extensions of these prohibitions and provides affirmative defenses for price increases due to specific costs. Violations are misdemeanors with penalties including fines and imprisonment.