BATON
ROUGE, LA – With the Governor declaring a state of emergency ahead
of Hurricane Harvey making landfall, Attorney General Jeff Landry
encourages Louisiana consumers to be conscious of price gouging.
“It is an unfortunate reality that some people and
businesses attempt to take advantage of consumers during and after natural
disasters,” said General Landry. “I strongly encourage consumers who suspect
price gouging to contact their local law enforcement agencies."
Price gouging is defined as the increase in prices or
value for goods and services that are higher than the prices ordinarily charged
for comparable goods and services at or immediately before the time of a state
of emergency. Once a state of emergency is declared by the governor or parish
president, a price gouging ban is placed on the area declared to be under the
state of emergency. The ban may remain in effect for up to 30 days after the
state of emergency ends.
In addition to civil penalties and restitutions for
consumers, a violation of the price gouging statute is a criminal offense punishable
by a fine up to $500.00, 6 months imprisonment, or both; imprisonment at hard
labor for not more than 5 years where there is any serious bodily injury or any
property damage in excess of $5,000.00; and imprisonment at hard labor for not
more than 21 years where a willful violation results in the death of any
person.
It is important to note that price gouging is not
attributable to verifiable market fluctuations and usually involves gasoline,
hotels, and generators. When reporting price gouging, be sure to include as
much information as possible including: the name and address of the merchant,
the price and receipt of the item or service, and your name, address, and phone
number so you may be reached if further information is needed.
#
If you suspect price gouging, please report it to your
local law enforcement agency. For more information on price gouging or tips for
victims of natural disasters, contact Attorney General Jeff Landry’s
Consumer Protection Section at 800-351-4889 or www.agjefflandry.com.