pricing; emergency; enforcement; attorney general.

HB 2301 prohibits businesses from charging more than 10% above pre-emergency prices for essential goods (like food, water, medical supplies, and rent) during a declared state of emergency. It classifies violations as felonies: selling over $500 worth of such goods in 24 hours during an emergency is a class 5 felony, while under $500 is a class 6 felony. The Arizona Attorney General is authorized to investigate and enforce these rules under existing consumer protection laws. This bill directly affects businesses selling essential commodities during emergencies, not the general public.