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Michigan gov’s order aimed at curbing virus price-gouging

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive order Sunday in an effort to curb price-gouging of emergency supplies and food during the coronavirus outbreak.

The temporary measure, which takes effect Monday, restrict a person or business from reselling goods or products that are “grossly in excess of the purchase price of the product.” Also, a business or individuals can’t sell a product at more than 20% higher than the purchase price unless the increase is “due to bringing the product to market.”

A violation will be a misdemeanor. The restrictions are in place through April 13.

The total number of Michigan coronavirus cases is 33, according to officials.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. People with mild illness recover in about two weeks.

“We will continue to take every measure we can to mitigate the spread of coronavirus and protect Michigan families,” said Whitmer said in a statement.

The Michigan attorney general’s office has said it received more than 75 complaints of price-gouging.

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