Are there consumer protections against price-gouging during emergencies?

In Texas, there are consumer protections against price-gouging during emergencies. According to the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices - Consumer Protection Act, it is illegal for businesses to engage in price-gouging during and up to 30 days following a declared disaster. Price-gouging is when businesses raise prices to an unreasonable level in response to an emergency situation. When a disaster has been declared, it is illegal for businesses to take advantage of consumers by charging an exorbitant amount for goods or services during that time. If a business raises prices too much, it could be considered price-gouging. Consumers can report suspected price-gouging to the Texas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. In addition, businesses have to clearly label any products that they sell during an emergency situation. This is to prevent confusion and to ensure that consumers are aware of the prices they are paying for products. The labeling must include either the original price of the product or the new and increased price. Businesses that are found guilty of price-gouging can be subject to civil penalties. These civil penalties can range from $20,000 to $250,000 for each violation of the law. It is important for Texans to know their consumer rights and that they have protections against price-gouging during emergencies.

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Are there consumer protections against price-gouging during emergencies?

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