Substitute House Bill No. 6856 aims to enhance consumer protection against price gouging during emergencies by introducing new definitions and provisions related to "abnormal economic disruption," "consumer necessity," and "precipitating event." The bill mandates the University of Connecticut School of Business to conduct a study on vendors' practices regarding the reduction of product sizes sold in Connecticut from May 1, 2005, to April 30, 2025, with findings due by October 1, 2025. It also repeals and replaces Section 42-230 of the general statutes, establishing a framework for the Attorney General to issue notices regarding abnormal economic disruptions, which must be publicly posted and can be disapproved by a joint legislative committee under certain conditions.

Key changes in the bill include broadening the prohibition on price increases to encompass the entire distribution chain of consumer necessities, such as food and prescription drugs, and removing the previous allowance for normal price fluctuations during emergencies. The Attorney General is granted exclusive authority to enforce these provisions, which are now considered unfair or deceptive trade practices. The bill also eliminates a $99 fine for violations, streamlining enforcement, and updates terminology by replacing "person, firm or corporation" with "vendor." 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