CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – West Virginia Attorney General JB McCuskey is warning residents and businesses against price gouging in the wake of devastating flooding that swept through parts of the state over the weekend.
The warning comes after Governor Patrick Morrisey declared a state of emergency on Sunday for Ohio and Marion counties, which experienced severe flash flooding that claimed lives, damaged homes, washed out roads, and disrupted power and water service for thousands of residents.
With the emergency declaration in place, the state’s price gouging laws are now active.
These laws prohibit individuals, businesses, or contractors from increasing the price of certain consumer goods or services by more than 10 percent compared to prices 10 days prior to the declaration.
This includes food, essential items, and emergency supplies and services, such as cleanup efforts.
“My heart breaks for the people impacted by this flooding. We want to make sure everyone is protected during this difficult time, and our price gouging laws give us the ability to go after anyone who would try to take advantage of people in need,” McCuskey said.
The law remains in effect for the duration of the state of emergency or for 30 days—whichever is longer—and includes some limited exceptions.
The Attorney General’s Office is encouraging consumers who notice a dramatic increase in prices or believe they have been overcharged to file a price gouging complaint. Receipts should be included with any complaint submitted.
Complaints can be filed online at www.wvago.gov. Anyone with questions or concerns can also contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division by calling 1-800-368-8808.
