Mississippi House Bill HB869

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22
• Failed: 2/1/22

Caption

Price gouging; create exemption for producers, growers, or processors of food products.

Impact

If enacted, HB869 would significantly alter the interpretation and application of existing price gouging regulations in Mississippi. Rather than strictly capping prices during emergencies, the bill permits flexibility for essential commodities, which could lead to higher prices in times when demand surges. Advocates argue that this could incentivize suppliers to ensure they are equipped to meet demand, while critics may fear it could exploit consumers during vulnerable moments when emergency services are crucial.

Summary

House Bill 869 seeks to amend Section 75-24-25 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, providing an exception to existing price-gouging prohibitions during declared states of emergency or local emergencies. The bill specifically targets the sale of essential commodities during such emergencies, allowing suppliers to charge prices that may exceed ordinary pricing under specific conditions. The goal is to ensure that suppliers can recover costs associated with the procurement and sale of goods during crises, potentially improving the availability of essential products when they are most needed.

Contention

The bill has generated debate among stakeholders in the community. Proponents posit that allowing price adjustments can help businesses cover their costs and encourage them to remain operational during emergencies. However, opponents argue that this could lead to unwarranted price increases that exploit consumers, especially those in lower-income brackets who may already be struggling. The tension between ensuring adequate supplies and protecting consumers from exploitation remains a central issue in the discussion surrounding HB869.