Room Pricing in Emergency Situations
SACRAMENTO, CA – In response to the wildfires devastating the state, President Trump and Governor Brown have declared a state of emergency in California. With thousands of displaced residents needing shelter, CH&LA urges properties to be educated on the obligations of the state’s anti-price gouging statute, Penal Code Section 396. Under Section 396, for 30 days after a disaster emergency is declared, it is unlawful for a property to sell or offer a hotel room for a price more than 10 percent above the price charged immediately prior to the declaration. During many previous crises in