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

California SB493 amends the Penal Code to prohibit excessive price increases on essential goods and services during declared states of emergency or local emergencies. The bill applies to natural or manmade disasters, including earthquakes, floods, fires, and wars. It restricts price increases to no more than 10% above the price charged before the emergency declaration. The bill also prohibits landlords from evicting tenants or increasing rents during emergencies. Violations are misdemeanors punishable by fines and imprisonment.

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

California SB493 amends the Penal Code to prohibit excessive price increases on essential goods and services during declared states of emergency or local emergencies. The bill applies to natural or manmade disasters, including earthquakes, floods, fires, and wars. It restricts price increases to no more than 10% above the price charged before the emergency declaration. The bill also prohibits landlords from evicting tenants or increasing rents during emergencies. Violations are misdemeanors punishable by fines and imprisonment.