New York Attorney General Letitia James has issued a consumer alert warning businesses and consumers about price gouging as a major winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow and dangerously cold temperatures across the state.
Governor Kathy Hochul has already declared a statewide state of emergency in advance of the storm.
In a statement released Friday, Attorney General James said her office will be closely monitoring for unfair price increases on essential goods and services.
“This storm is expected to bring large amounts of snow and dangerously low temperatures to communities throughout our state,” James said. “New Yorkers preparing for this storm should not have to face higher costs for the essentials they need to stay safe. Our price gouging laws are clear, and my office will not hesitate to hold accountable those who try to take advantage of this emergency by raising their prices.”
Under New York law, businesses are prohibited from charging excessively high prices for goods and services that are vital to health, safety, and welfare during emergencies or other market disruptions. The law applies to vendors, retailers, and suppliers statewide and covers essential items such as food, water, gasoline, generators, batteries, flashlights, hotel lodging, and transportation services.
The Attorney General’s Office is urging consumers to report suspected price gouging. Complaints should include the increased prices, the dates and locations where they were observed, and copies of receipts or photos of posted prices, if available.
Violations of the state’s price gouging law can carry civil penalties of up to $25,000 per violation.
Consumers who believe they have been affected by price gouging can file a complaint online with the Attorney General’s Office or call the state’s consumer helpline at 800-771-7755.
