That fits the very definition of price gouging. But it’s the government, and they use complex math to get the ultimate squeeze, so we’re supposed to be impressed. And, they’re going to spend the money, so just thank them and move along.
>> That fits the very definition of price gouging <<
OK, if you wanna call it that.
But for anybody who understands economics and understands how prices operate to maxmize the efficient use of available resources, this situation fits the very definition of allocation based on supply and demand.