Sunday, February 9, 2025

Price gouging law in effect for Winter Storm Finn

North Carolina’s price gouging law is now in effect, announced by Attorney General Josh Stein, following Gov. Roy Cooper’s declaration of state of emergency. (Port City Daily/file)

Following the governor’s state of emergency declaration, Attorney General Josh Stein put the state’s price gauge law into effect.

READ MORE: Governor declares state of emergency ahead of winter storm

ALSO: Early closures in the tri-county region due to Winter Storm Finn

Gov. Roy Cooper issued a state of emergency Monday in anticipation of heavy rainfall, flash flooding and wind gusts up to 55 miles per hour, as well as tornado warnings. The storm could result in power outages due to downed power lines and fallen trees.

North Carolina’s law against price gouging, or charging too much in time of a crisis, goes into effect when the governor or legislature declares a state of emergency. In some cases, businesses and industries have a reasonable need to increase prices to resupply but should disclose these increases so people can make informed purchasing decisions.

Businesses cannot, however, unreasonably raise the price of goods or services to profit from a state of emergency.

“I am praying for everyone’s safety during these storms,” Attorney General Josh Stein said in a press release. “I will do all I can to hold any bad actors accountable.”

Stein encourages any consumers who see unfair prices to report the AG’s office online, so it can investigate and take action, if necessary. An individual can also call 1-877-5-NO-SCAM.


Tips or comments? Email info@localdailymedia.com.

Want to read more from PCD? Subscribe now and then sign up for our morning newsletter, Wilmington Wire, and get the headlines delivered to your inbox every morning.

Related Articles