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price gouging

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 Montana, price gouging is addressed under the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) 30-14-103, which prohibits unfair or deceptive trade practices. While Montana does not have a statute that specifically uses the term 'price gouging,' the state's laws against unfair trade practices could be applied to cases where sellers significantly increase the prices of goods and services during emergencies or disasters. The Montana Department of Justice's Office of Consumer Protection is responsible for enforcing these laws. Additionally, during a declared state of emergency, the Governor of Montana may issue executive orders that further restrict price increases on essential goods and services to prevent exploitation of consumers during such times. It is important for retailers and sellers to be aware of these regulations and for consumers to report any suspected price gouging to the Office of Consumer Protection.

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Consumers

price gouging

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Consumers

price gouging

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