Price gouging law in effect ahead of Tropical Storm Imelda

RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — Attorney General Jeff Jackson is reminding North Carolinians that the state’s price gouging law is now in effect following Gov. Josh Stein’s statewide state of emergency declaration ahead of Tropical Storm Imelda.

The storm is expected to bring heavy rain and possible flooding to North Carolina on Monday and Tuesday.

“We’re not going to let bad actors take advantage of North Carolinians during a storm,” Jackson said. “If you see something that might be price gouging, report it to our office right away. We’re going to review every complaint to protect people from scammers.”

Under state law, it is illegal for businesses or individuals to excessively raise the price of goods and services during a state of emergency. The law took effect Saturday, September 27, and will remain in place for 30 days.

While businesses may adjust prices to cover rising costs or supply issues, they cannot unreasonably increase prices to make a profit. Companies are also expected to explain any necessary increases to customers up front.

North Carolinians can report suspected price gouging by calling 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or filing a complaint online at ncdoj.gov/pricegouging