Attorney General Michelle Henry has issued a warning to residents of Erie County, Pennsylvania, about potential price gouging following a significant winter storm. The storm left over three feet of snow in the area, prompting Governor Shapiro to declare a disaster emergency on November 30, 2024. This declaration activates specific protections under state law to prevent unfair price increases during emergencies.
Attorney General Henry stated, “As the impact of this winter storm continues to be felt, Pennsylvanians should be aware of potential price-gouging and the laws in place to protect them from unfair price increases during emergencies.” She encouraged residents who suspect price gouging to report it to the Bureau of Consumer Protection.
The state's law prohibits businesses from charging more than 20 percent above the average price for goods or services sold in the seven days before the emergency declaration. Residents can report suspected cases by submitting complaints online at www.attorneygeneral.gov or calling 800-441-2555.
Henry emphasized that whether it's "a store over-charging you for a snow blower, a generator, or a simple necessity," her office is ready to protect consumers and enforce the law. The Attorney General's Bureau of Consumer Protection is authorized to investigate complaints and impose penalties up to $10,000 per violation, along with restitution.