SB 493: Unlawful business practices: price gouging.
SB 493 status: Referred — Read second time and amended. Re-referred to Com. on APPR (updated Jul 2, 2026).
What this bill does
Overall score
Bill summary
OfficialUnder existing law, upon the proclamation of a state of emergency by the President of the United States or the Governor, or upon the declaration of a local emergency by the governing authority of any county, city, or city and county, and for 30 days or 180 days, as specified, following the proclamation or declaration o...
Key analysis
Impact analysis
Environment
Benefits
- No direct environmental benefit identified
Risks
- No direct environmental risk identified
Economy
Benefits
- Protects consumers from excessive price increases during emergencies.
- Stabilizes prices for essential goods and services.
Risks
- May create compliance burdens for businesses.
- Could potentially limit supply if price controls are too strict.
Society
Benefits
- Enhances consumer protection during crises.
- Prevents exploitation of vulnerable populations during emergencies.
Risks
- No direct social risk identified
How trustworthy & consequential it is
Source
LegiScan
Confidence
highhigh
Analysis status
LegiScan full bill text
The bill expands the definition of 'state of emergency' to include war, which may have broad implications for price controls.
The bill amends existing law, and a full understanding requires reviewing the referenced sections of the Penal Code and Business and Professions Code.
Where it stands
Introduced
CompleteCommittee
CurrentRead second time and amended. Re-referred to Com. on APPR.
Floor
UpcomingGovernor
UpcomingEnacted
UpcomingHow it affects your district
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