Attorney General Josh Stein announced that North Carolina’s price gouging law is now in effect due to Hurricane Helene. The Department of Justice will closely review price gouging complaints, and Stein emphasized accountability for those breaking the law.
“Hurricane Helene is expected to impact much of the state, especially the Piedmont and mountains,” said Attorney General Josh Stein. “Make sure you are prepared and follow local emergency guidelines. As you prepare for the storm and it concludes, watch out for price gougers, and report it to my office if you see it.”
North Carolina’s price gouging law is activated when a state of emergency is declared by the governor or legislature. While some businesses may need to increase prices to resupply during such times, they must disclose these increases transparently. Unreasonable price hikes aimed at profiting from the emergency are prohibited.
Residents are advised to follow proper storm preparation tips available at www.readync.org. Potential instances of price gouging can be reported by calling 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or filing a complaint at https://ncdoj.gov/pricegouging.
Since 2018, Attorney General Stein has filed 12 lawsuits against 29 defendants under this statute. He has secured 14 judgments or settlements totaling $1,080,000 against 25 defendants, including a record $274,000 settlement.
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