Release date: 5/30/2018
(RALEIGH) The price gouging law that protects consumers from scammers is now in effect in Western North Carolina after Governor Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency for the region after heavy rains, mudslides, and evacuations. Attorney General Josh Stein notified businesses and consumers today to be on the lookout for any issues.
“My office is here to protect North Carolinians from scams and frauds,” said Attorney General Josh Stein. “That is true all the time – but especially during severe weather. It is against the law to charge an excessive price during a state of emergency. If you see a business taking advantage of this storm, please let my office know so we can hold them accountable.”
North Carolina has a strong statute against price gouging – charging too much during a time of crisis – that is tied directly to a declaration of a state of emergency. When Governor Cooper declared a state of emergency for Western North Carolina, the statute went into effect and will remain so until the state of emergency is lifted.
The price gouging law is in effect for the following counties: Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Burke, Buncombe, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Catawba, Cherokee, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Iredell, Lincoln, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Polk, Rowan, Rutherford, Stanly, Swain, Transylvania, Union, Watauga, and Wilkes.Attorney General Stein and the North Carolina Department of Justice will be reviewing complaints from consumers closely over the next several weeks and is prepared to take action against any businesses engaging in price gouging activities. Please report potential price gouging by calling 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or file a complaint at www.ncdoj.gov.
Contact:
Laura Brewer (919) 716-6484
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