In the wake of Friday’s heavy rainstorms, New York Attorney General is warning consumers about price gouging of essential goods and services that are tied to the flash flooding that caused significant damage in the region, including Long Island.
On Friday, Long Island was under state of emergency, and James is urging New Yorkers who saw higher prices, including for ride-hailing, to report the issue to the AG office.
“Heavy rain and flash flooding have devastated New York City and parts of the state and I am reminding businesses that they cannot use this storm as an excuse to jack up prices,” James said in a statement.
“Families and neighbors should not have to pay extra for basic necessities as they are dealing with flooding, damages, and road closures,” she added. I urge New Yorkers to report any unreasonably high prices for essential items to my office. I also encourage New Yorkers impacted by the storms to follow local guidance to stay safe.”
New York law prohibits businesses from taking unfair advantage of consumers by selling goods or services that are vital to health, safety, or welfare for an unconscionably excessive price during emergencies. The price gouging statute covers New York state vendors, retailers, and suppliers, and includes essential goods and services that are necessary for the health, safety, and welfare of consumers or the general public. These goods and services include food, water, gasoline, generators, batteries, flashlights, hotel lodging and transportation options.
When reporting price gouging to the Office of the Attorney General consumers should report the specific increased prices, dates, and places that they saw the increased prices; and provide copies of their sales receipts and photos of the advertised prices, if available.
Price gouging violations can carry penalties of up to $25,000 per violation. New Yorkers should report potential concerns about price gouging to OAG by filing a complaint online or calling 800-771-7755.
Image and article originally from libn.com. Read the original article here.