South Carolina Atty. Gen. Alan Wilson announced that the state’s law against price gouging is now in effect since Gov. Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency ahead of a winter storm expected to hit South Carolina.
Wilson said, "This is just a precaution, and we're not seeing any impacts yet, but we have to be prepared. If this storm does cause problems, we could see normal price increases for goods and services, and those are not considered price gouging under our law.”
He added, “But, we may see businesses and individuals try to unfairly take advantage of the situation through price gouging of food, gasoline, lodging, other commodities, and services like tree removal, as defined by the statute. By our law, that’s a criminal violation and an unfair trade practice.”
The price gouging law (SC §39-5-145) is a general prohibition of unconscionable prices during times of disaster. It is in effect until the state of emergency expires or is terminated.
Price gougers can be charged for excessive pricing, a misdemeanor offense punishable by a $1,000 fine and/or 30 days in jail.
Wilson’s office said normal fluctuations in price are to be expected and aren’t price gouging. But if you feel like you are the victim of price gouging, there are certain steps you can take to help our office investigate.
Note the time, place, address, and name of the gas station or business.
Note the price you paid.
Note any prices nearby and get the same information on those stations or businesses.
Take photos to identify the business, along with the price.
Provide your name and contact information.
Wilson’s office urges you to email any examples and documentation to pricegouging@scag.gov.
You can also provide that information on its website at https://www.scag.gov/price-gouging/.
If you have witnessed a likely violation and don’t have access to email or the website, you can call 803-737-3953 and leave a message.
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