The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has approved a temporary increase in existing penalties for those convicted of price gouging, increasing the maximum private fine for each violation from $10,000 to $50,000.
The allegations were approved at a scheduled meeting scheduled on Tuesday.
Supervisor Lindsey Horvath said an increase in civil penalties was drafted with the goal of protecting renters and consumers from exploitative practices, particularly during “times of crisis.”
“When a disaster occurs, no one needs to worry about being used by price gouging,” Horvath said in a news release. An illegal price hike coincides with the harm they cause. ”
The aerial view shows the house burned in the Eton fire in Altadena, California on February 5th, 2025. (Mario Tama/Getty Images)
The increase in penalties came into effect quickly across the county as part of a local emergency declaration related to the January fire. Authorities say the maximum penalty of $50,000 continues during the emergency declaration.
In the wake of a fatal and devastating wildfire in Los Angeles County, authorities have received “extensive reports” of gouging and overprice rental prices for essential items.
The board says price gouging laws can be difficult to implement, but Chair Kathryn Burger said he hopes to increase penalties and bring awareness to existing laws.
“Accessible and affordable housing should not be victims of these wildfire disasters,” Berger said.
Last week, the Board of Supervisors instructed LA County departments to continue outreach efforts to residents and employers regarding rights and liability under the expanded consumer protection regulations. Another complaint has been passed in connection with the
Victims of price gouging, including renters facing excessive rent increases, have been urged to contact the California Attorney General’s Office or the Count of Los Angeles’ Bureau of Consumer and Business. Masu.
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