On March 28, 2020, the Government of Ontario issued an emergency order prohibiting retailers and individuals from charging unfair prices for necessary goods that Ontarians need to protect themselves from COVID-19. The necessary goods on the list include:
- Masks and gloves used as personal protective equipment in relation to infections.
- Non-prescription medications for the treatment of the symptoms of the coronavirus.
- Disinfecting agents intended for cleaning and disinfecting objects or humans.
- Personal hygiene products, including soap products and paper products.
This order is made under the Ontario Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act and will be in force for the duration of the emergency and prohibits the sale of necessary goods for unconscionable prices. "Unconscionable prices" would be defined as a price that grossly exceeds the price at which similar goods are readily available to consumers.
Individual offenders caught price gouging can face a $750 fine, or, if summoned to court and convicted, can face a fine of up to $100,000 and one year in jail. Officers and directors of companies can face a fine of up to $500,000 and up to a year in jail and corporations could face fines of up to $10 million.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
