New York Attorney General Letitia James issued an alert warning businesses against price gouging of essential items amid a winter storm bringing heavy snow across the state. A state of emergency has been declared by Governor Hochul for New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, and the Capital Region. New York’s price gouging law prevents businesses from taking advantage of consumers by selling essential goods or services at an excessively higher price during market disruptions or emergencies. Attorney General James urges New Yorkers who see higher prices on essential goods and services to report the issue to the Office of the Attorney General (OAG).
“New Yorkers stocking up on necessities before the snowstorm should not have to pay higher prices,” said Attorney General James. “New York’s price gouging law is clear that retailers cannot raise prices on necessities during emergencies. Ahead of the heavy snowstorm, I urge New Yorkers to follow local guidance to stay safe and report any price gouging to my office.”
New York law prohibits businesses from taking unfair advantage of consumers by selling goods or services that are vital to health, safety, or welfare for an unconscionably excessive price during emergencies. The price gouging statute covers New York state vendors, retailers, and suppliers, and includes essential goods and services that are necessary for the health, safety, and welfare of consumers or the general public. These goods and services include food, water, gasoline, generators, batteries, flashlights, hotel lodging, and transportation options.
When reporting price gouging to OAG, consumers should:
- Report the specific increased prices, dates, and places that they saw the increased prices; and
- Provide copies of their sales receipts and photos of the advertised prices, if available.
Price gouging violations can carry penalties of up to $25,000 per violation. New Yorkers should report potential concerns about price gouging to OAG by filing a complaint online or calling 800-771-7755.
