SPRINGFIELD — Disasters take a physical, emotional and financial toll, which can be compounded by inflated prices of essential items during the recovery process. To protect Illinoisans in a time of need, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton is working to prevent price gouging immediately following a disaster.

“Tornados are common in Illinois — imagine one destroys your home and you go to the store to purchase diapers only to find the price has tripled. For some, that’s just not feasible,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “The affordability and availability of essential goods is vital for those rebuilding their lives.”

While 39 states have regulations against price gouging during disasters, Illinois limits its protections to excessive costs of petroleum products during market emergencies. To further protect consumers, Senate Bill 1932 would prohibit unjustified price increases on essential goods and services in designated disaster areas for 45 days after the governor or U.S. president declares a state of emergency.

Under Glowiak Hilton’s measure, a price increase of 20% or more during a disaster is considered unconscionably high, unless it can be attributed to increased costs on behalf of the seller. Items covered by the bill include building materials, food, medical and emergency supplies, and repair, storage and transportation services.

“This isn’t only about enforcing fair pricing, it’s about restoring trust in our marketplace during times of crisis and holding predatory businesses accountable,” Glowiak Hilton added.

Senate Bill 1932 passed the Senate on Friday.