New York AG Issues Price Gouging Warning Amid Crippling Winter Storm

NEW YORK — New York Attorney General Letitia James is warning businesses against price gouging as a severe winter storm makes travel difficult.

James issued an alert warning businesses against price gouging of essential items during a winter storm bringing heavy snow across New York. A state of emergency has been declared by Governor Hochul for New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, and the Capital Region.

"New Yorkers stocking up on necessities before the snowstorm should not have to pay higher prices," James said. "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's price gouging law prevents businesses from taking advantage of consumers by selling essential goods or services at excessively higher prices during market disruptions or emergencies. 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 York law prohibits vendors, retailers and suppliers from taking unfair advantage of consumers by selling goods or services that are critical for health, safety, or welfare for an "unconscionably excessive price" during emergencies.

These goods and services include food, water, gasoline, generators, batteries, flashlights, hotel lodging, and transportation options.

When reporting price gouging to OAG, consumers should note 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 possible.

Price gouging violations can carry penalties of up to $25,000 per violation. New Yorkers can report price gouging to OAG by filing a complaint online or calling 800-771-7755.