Substitute House Bill No. 6856 aims to enhance consumer protection against price gouging during emergencies by redefining the criteria for what constitutes an "unconscionably excessive price" and expanding the scope of existing laws to cover the entire distribution chain of consumer necessities, including food and prescription drugs. The bill introduces new definitions such as "abnormal economic disruption," "consumer necessity," and "precipitating event," which clarify the circumstances under which the Attorney General can intervene. It mandates the University of Connecticut School of Business to conduct a study on vendors' practices regarding the reduction of product quantities sold in Connecticut from May 1, 2005, to April 30, 2025, with findings due by October 1, 2025.

Key changes in the bill include the repeal and replacement of Section 42-230 of the general statutes, which streamlines the enforcement process and enhances the Attorney General's powers to issue notices regarding abnormal economic disruptions. The bill removes the previous fine of up to ninety-nine dollars for violations and replaces the term "person, firm or corporation" with "vendor." It also establishes that any significant price increase during a declared emergency is subject to enforcement, while fluctuations in retail prices during normal business operations are not prohibited. The Attorney General is granted exclusive enforcement authority under the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act, including the ability to conduct investigations and take necessary actions against violations. The effective date for the bill is set for July 1, 2025, with the study provision effective upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 42-230
GL Joint Favorable Substitute: 42-230
File No. 347: 42-230