Price gouging occurs when retailers or other sellers take advantage of the increased demand and insufficient supply of goods and services—often commodities and basic necessities—following a natural disaster, war, civil unrest, or other event, and increase prices beyond a fair or reasonable amount.
In Idaho, price gouging is not specifically addressed by a standalone statute. However, the state's Consumer Protection Act prohibits unfair and deceptive trade practices, which could encompass price gouging under certain circumstances. In the event of an emergency or disaster, the Governor of Idaho has the authority to declare a state of emergency and could potentially issue executive orders that temporarily prohibit price gouging. Additionally, federal law may apply in cases of national emergencies or when interstate commerce is affected. It is important for retailers and sellers to be aware of the potential for such executive orders and to ensure that their pricing practices remain fair, especially during times of crisis when goods and services are in high demand and short supply.