Stay Safe and Avoid Scams: Price Gouging Law in Effect in North Carolina

RALEIGH, NC (January 14, 2019) — The price gouging law that protects consumers from scammers is now in effect in North Carolina after Gov. Roy Cooper declared a statewide state of emergency due to this weekend’s winter storm. Attorney General Josh Stein notified businesses and consumers today to be on the lookout for any issues.

“After this weekend’s winter storm, North Carolina is under a state of emergency and our state’s price gouging law is in effect,” said Attorney General Josh Stein. “It is against the law to charge excessive prices during a state of emergency. If you see a business taking advantage of this storm, let my office know so we can hold them accountable and protect you from price gougers.”

North Carolina has a strong statute against price gouging – charging too much during a time of crisis – that is tied directly to a declaration of a state of emergency. When Gov. Cooper declared a state of emergency for North Carolina on Sunday, Jan. 13, the statute went into effect for the entire state and will remain so until the state of emergency is lifted.

Attorney General Stein and the North Carolina Department of Justice will be reviewing complaints from consumers closely over the next several weeks and are prepared to take action against any businesses engaging in price gouging activities. Please report potential price gouging by calling 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or file a complaint at www.ncdoj.gov/gouging.