Yingling Supports Legislation to Crack Down on Price Gouging

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – After his recent condemnation of price gouging during the COVID-19 pandemic, state Rep. Sam Yingling, D-Grayslake, is taking action by supporting new legislation that would prohibit price gouging on medical equipment.

“Despite efforts to discourage price gouging, it is clear that we need legislation to provide a safeguard for residents during this crisis and in the future,” said Yingling. “Taking advantage of a health crises to make a profit at the expense of others is unacceptable, which is why I am supporting this legislation.”

During the COVID-19 crisis, reports of price gouging for medical equipment have skyrocketed, as shown by the Illinois Attorney General’s Office investigating over 900 price gouging claims in recent weeks. In response, Yingling is supporting House Bill 5616, which would prohibit licensed physicians and hospitals from selling medical equipment higher than the suggested retail price, keeping lifesaving medical equipment accessible and affordable to those who need it most. 

“In times of crisis, we get to see both the heroism of those working to help others as well as the selfishness of some looking to benefit themselves at the cost of others,” said Yingling. “In the months ahead, I will do whatever I can to help protect and support our community through these difficult times, and this bill is a good step in doing that.”

Residents looking to report possible price gouging and fraud related to COVID-19 are encouraged to visit the Illinois Attorney General’s website at www.IllinoisAttorneyGeneral.gov.