Attorney General Jason Miyares of Virginia has announced that the state's anti-price gouging statutes are now in effect due to the potential threat of wildfires. This action comes as the Quaker Run Fire in Madison County and the Tuggles Gap Fire in Patrick County have broken containment lines in recent days, prompting Governor Glenn Youngkin to declare a state of emergency.
"The anti-price gouging laws in Virginia safeguard Virginians from exploitation by bad actors during a time of crisis," said Attorney General Miyares. "Any violations of Virginia's Anti-Price Gouging Act will be thoroughly prosecuted by my office."
Virginia's Anti-Price Gouging Act, enacted in 2004, prohibits suppliers from charging "unconscionable prices" for "necessary goods and services" during the thirty-day period following a declared state of emergency. This includes items such as water, ice, food, generators, batteries, home repair materials and services, and tree removal services. The law determines if a price is unconscionable by comparing it to the price charged for the same or similar goods or services in the ten days prior to the disaster.
Violations of Virginia's Anti-Price Gouging Act can be reported to the Office of the Attorney General Consumer Protection Section. However, claims related to gasoline and motor fuel prices are handled by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Consumers who have concerns or wish to file a complaint can contact Attorney General Miyares' Consumer Protection Section for additional information. The office's Consumer Protection Hotline can be reached at 804-786-2042 during business hours.
It is important for residents to be aware of their rights and to report any instances of price gouging. Attorney General Miyares and his team are committed to ensuring that Virginians are protected from exploitation during times of crisis.
For more information and resources, visit the Office of the Attorney General's website at www.oag.state.va.us/consumer-protection/.
Click this link to access more information: https://www.oag.state.va.us/media-center/news-releases/2632-november-7-2023-attorney-general-miyares-announces-state-price-gouging-protections-in-effect-due-to-potential-threat-of-wildfires