Disaster triggers law to fight price gouging in South Carolina

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COLUMBIA, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) - South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced that the state’s law against price gouging is now in effect since Gov. Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency because of Hurricane Helene.

“We can expect normal price increases, and those are not considered price gouging under our law. But we may see businesses and individuals looking to unfairly take advantage of the situation through price gouging of food, gasoline, lodging, and other commodities as defined by the statute. By our law, that’s a criminal violation and an unfair trade practice,” Wilson said.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

Electric cars can be used to power home devices during emergencies

Aside from Teslas, most electric vehicles have some version of vehicle-to-load or bi-directional charging. Some vehicles also have a hidden plug under the seat.

View the outage map for Georgia electric cooperatives

For those who aren't served by Georgia Power, here's a look at outages in the Peach State.

Jefferson Energy employees undergo training in June ahead of the start of hurricane season.

View the Georgia Power outage map

Hurricane Helene continues impacting Georgia and has caused widespread outages. Crews are responding to outages and restoring power where it’s safe to do so as quickly as possible.

Millions left without power as Helene lashes the South with wind and sheets of rain

Helene made landfall late Thursday night in northwestern Florida as a Category 4 hurricane.

Storm damage was reported in Lake City, Florida, after Hurricane Helene made landfall.

The price gouging law 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.

Normal fluctuations in price are to be expected and are not 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. Please do the following:

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 pictures that identify the business, along with the price.
Provide your name and information.

Email any examples and documentation to [email protected]. You can also call 803-737-3953 and leave a message.