WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Florida's attorney general on Wednesday activated the state's price gouging hotline as millions of residents prepare for Hurricane Dorian.
This comes as Gov. Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for 26 counties in the path of the storm, which includes Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast.
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Florida’s Price Gouging Law only applies within the area of the declared state of emergency.
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“Floridians in the projected path of this storm should take steps now to ensure they are prepared for a strike and the possibility of days without electricity. This means purchasing essential commodities such as food, water and fuel. I have activated Florida’s Price Gouging Hotline in an effort to prevent gouging, so Floridians can afford essential items now. Please report gouging to my office by calling (866) 9NO-SCAM or download our new reporting app—NO SCAM.”
Under Florida's laws, it is illegal to charge unconscionable prices for goods or services following a declared state of emergency.
Individuals or businesses found guilty of price gouging could face fines up to $1,000 per violation, or up to a maximum of $25,000 per day.
I have activated Florida's Price Gouging Hotline.
— Fla. AG Ashley Moody (@AGAshleyMoody) August 28, 2019
Floridians in the projected path of #HurricaneDorian prepare now—and report price gouging to my office by calling (866) 9NO-SCAM or by downloading our reporting app NO SCAM. pic.twitter.com/GRrQhj9DOZ