LANSING, Mich., June 24, 2026 — State Reps. Jason Hoskins (D-Southfield), Laurie Pohutsky (D-Livonia) and Denise Mentzer (D-Mt. Clemens) have introduced legislation to prevent excessive price increases and protect consumers from exploitation during declared emergencies. When natural disasters or other emergencies occur, Michigan residents often face limited access to essential goods and services such as food, water, medicine and shelter, along with rising costs in already stressful economic conditions.

“Emergencies often bring out the best in our communities, with people coming together to support one another in difficult times. But emergencies can also expose families to unfair and excessive price increases on the basic necessities they depend on,” Hoskins said. “No one should be forced to pay inflated prices for essentials in the middle of a crisis. This legislation is about making sure Michigan families are protected from that kind of exploitation when they are at their most vulnerable.”

“Emergencies can often displace families and leave them needing emergency housing,” Pohutsky said. “My bill in this package would prohibit price gouging for lodging, including hotels, so families can afford a place to stay. No one should be left without a roof over their head simply because of excessive price increases, especially during a time of emergency.”

The package, House Bills 6102–04, prohibits businesses from charging more than 20% above pre-emergency prices for critical goods and services, including food, water, medical supplies, building materials and lodging. Under the legislation, price increases beyond 20% during or shortly after a declared emergency would be presumed unlawful unless businesses can demonstrate the increase is directly tied to higher supply costs or other legitimate market factors. The bills also empower prosecutors to investigate violations, seek civil penalties and bring class action claims on behalf of affected consumers.

“It is essential that prices stay stable during emergencies,” Mentzer said. “Nowhere are the stakes more urgent than with energy prices. Families need to be able to afford emergency fuel to keep their homes warm, or necessary equipment powered on. They need to be able to afford gas in the event they are displaced. The fact is, there is no reason for companies to charge more just because there is an emergency. This package protects Michiganders from these predatory pricing practices and ensures emergencies aren’t also financial ones.”

“Price gouging during emergencies undermines fairness, public trust and basic humanity,” Hoskins added. “Clear rules are needed in law, along with real consequences to make sure those who choose to take advantage of crisis conditions to exploit Michiganders are held accountable.”

The legislation is part of House Democrats’ broader efforts to lower costs for families and protect consumers from unfair practices that make everyday life more expensive. By preventing excessive price increases during emergencies, the bills help ensure Michiganders can afford essential goods and services when they need them most.

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