SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA – Today, the House Commerce Committee discussed a consumer protection measure that would prohibit price gouging of essential goods and services during a national or local emergency. The legislation, authored by House Commerce Finance and Policy Committee Chair Zack Stephenson (DFL- Coon Rapids), would protect Minnesotans from exorbitant pricing of basic necessities, and enact a civil penalty of up to $1,000 per transaction on bad actors engaging in price gouging.
“A catastrophe or natural disaster isn’t the time for profiteering,” said Rep. Stephenson. “Minnesotans deserve to be protected from people who would try to turn our darkest hours in to opportunities to enrich themselves. While most businesses in Minnesota would never engage in this despicable behavior, those that would, should be held accountable.”
The bill received testimony of support from Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison and the Minnesota Retailers Association.
“Protecting Minnesota consumers from being taken advantage of by predatory pricing practices in the middle of public health crises, weather disasters, and other emergencies is fundamental to helping all Minnesotans afford their lives and live with dignity and respect,” said Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison. “We should be proactive and ensure we have protections in place for Minnesotans before the next natural disaster or public health emergency strikes and leaves consumers at the mercy of price gouging.”
More information, including supporting materials, is available on the committee’s webpage. Video recording of today’s hearing will be made available on the House Public Information YouTube channel.