Connecticut: Gas Price Gouging Ban Set for September 2026

• Connecticut's Acting Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection Emma Cimino notified the Attorney General of an abnormal market disruption concerning wholesale motor gasoline and gasohol prices.
• Connecticut General Statute § 42-234 prohibits sellers of these energy resources from charging unconscionably excessive prices.
• This prohibition against Connecticut gas price gouging will be in effect from September 3, 2026, to October 3, 2026.
• The measure aims to protect consumers from potential price exploitation during a period of identified market instability.

From September 3, 2026, through October 3, 2026, all sellers of motor gasoline or gasohol within Connecticut are legally forbidden from selling or even offering these energy resources at what is deemed an "unconscionably excessive price."

Connecticut's Attorney General has received an official notification from the Acting Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Emma Cimino, signaling a significant disturbance in the state's energy market. This formal communication specifically identifies an "abnormal market disruption" impacting the wholesale pricing of motor gasoline and gasohol. Such a declaration is a critical precursor to activating state-level consumer protection measures designed to mitigate the effects of price volatility on residents and businesses. The notification underscores a proactive stance by state authorities to monitor and respond to economic conditions that could adversely affect the public.

Crucially, this market disruption has triggered a specific legal prohibition on certain pricing practices for a defined period. From September 3, 2026, through October 3, 2026, all sellers of motor gasoline or gasohol within Connecticut are legally forbidden from selling or even offering these energy resources at what is deemed an "unconscionably excessive price." This month-long window represents a targeted effort to shield consumers from potential price gouging during a period identified as particularly susceptible to market instability. The measure aims to ensure that essential fuel remains accessible and affordable, preventing opportunistic pricing during a time of heightened wholesale cost fluctuations.

The authority for this prohibition stems directly from Connecticut General Statute § 42-234, a key piece of legislation designed to protect consumers during declared market emergencies. This statute specifically addresses the sale of energy resources, including motor gasoline and gasohol, and empowers the state to intervene when market conditions become abnormal. It establishes a clear legal standard, prohibiting sellers from charging prices that are "unconscionably excessive," thereby providing a framework for identifying and prosecuting instances of price gouging. The law's existence reflects a legislative recognition of the vital role these resources play in daily life and the potential for exploitation during supply chain disruptions or other market anomalies.

Under the provisions of Conn. Gen. Stat. § 42-234, the scope of the prohibition is clearly defined, applying to any entity involved in the sale or offering for sale of motor gasoline or gasohol. This broad application ensures that the protective measures are comprehensive, covering various points of sale across the state. The statute's activation, following the DEEP Commissioner's notice, transforms a general market concern into a specific legal obligation for businesses, mandating adherence to fair pricing principles. This legal framework is essential for maintaining market integrity and consumer confidence, especially when external factors introduce significant uncertainty into supply and demand dynamics.

The activation of Connecticut's anti-price gouging statute for motor gasoline and gasohol in late 2026 carries significant implications for both consumers and businesses. For residents, it offers a crucial layer of protection against potential exploitation during a period of identified market vulnerability. Knowing that state law prohibits unconscionably excessive pricing provides a measure of security and helps to stabilize household budgets against unpredictable fuel costs. This proactive regulatory stance demonstrates the state's commitment to ensuring essential goods remain accessible and fairly priced, even when wholesale markets are in flux.

For retailers and distributors of motor gasoline and gasohol, this notice serves as a clear and unambiguous warning. It mandates strict compliance with pricing regulations during the specified month, from September 3 to October 3, 2026. Businesses must carefully monitor their pricing strategies to avoid falling afoul of the "unconscionably excessive" standard, as violations could lead to significant legal penalties. This regulatory action highlights the state's readiness to enforce consumer protection laws, reinforcing the principle that market disruptions should not be used as an opportunity for undue profit at the expense of the public. The specific future date of the prohibition also allows businesses ample time to prepare and adjust their operations accordingly.

Source: Information provided by the Connecticut Attorney General's office.