New York Attorney General Letitia James issued a consumer alert this week warning residents and businesses about potential price gouging ahead of a severe coastal storm. The storm is bringing heavy winds, rain, and potential flooding to the region this weekend.
Governor Hochul has declared a state of emergency for New York City and Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester counties. Under New York law, businesses are prohibited from selling essential goods or services at unconscionably excessive prices during emergencies or market disruptions.
The price gouging law applies to New York state vendors, retailers, and suppliers. Essential goods and services covered by the law include food, water, gasoline, generators, batteries, flashlights, hotel lodging, and transportation options.
Consumers who encounter unfair price hikes are encouraged to file complaints with the Office of the Attorney General. When reporting, individuals should provide the specific increased prices, the dates and locations where the increases occurred, and copies of sales receipts or photos of advertised prices if available.
Price gouging violations can carry penalties of up to $25,000 per violation.
