As a precautionary measure, a state of emergency is in effect for all of Florida. This kicks in price gauging laws. If you suspect price gouging, report this information to the Attorney General’s Price Gouging Hotline at 1-866-966-7226.
Price Gouging Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Price Gouging?
Florida Statute 501.160 states that during a state of emergency, it is unlawful to rent, sell, lease, offer to rent, sell, or lease essential commodities, dwelling units, or self-storage facilities at an unconscionable price. A price is presumed to be unconscionable if: (1) there is a gross disparity between the price charged during the state of emergency and the average price during the 30 days before the state of emergency or (2) the price grossly exceeds the average price the same or similar commodity was available in the trade area during the 30 days before the declaration of the state of emergency, unless the seller can justify the price by showing increases in its costs or market trends. Examples of necessary commodities for storm events are food, water, ice, gas, lodging and lumber.
2. How do I know if I’m being price gouged?
The law compares the reported price of the commodity or service during the state of emergency to the average price charged over the 30-day period prior to the declared state of emergency. If there is a gross disparity between the prior price and the current charge, it could be considered price gouging.
3. What is covered under the Price Gouging Statute?
The Price Gouging Statute covers lodging and storage facilities and essential commodities necessary for use or consumption as a direct result of the emergency. A “commodity” means any good, service, material, merchandise, supplies, equipment, resources, or other article of commerce, and includes, without limitation, food, water, ice, chemicals, petroleum products, and lumber. Commodities covered under the statute include those rented, sold or offered for rent or sale within the area of the declared state of emergency and necessary for consumption or use as a direct result of the emergency. The law also requires those selling goods and services to possess a business tax receipt. Examples of non-essential items are alcoholic beverages and cigarettes.
4. What evidence do I need to help enforce the Price Gouging Statute?
If you suspect price gouging, obtain as much information as possible in the form of photographs of signs displaying the price, receipts, estimates, reservation numbers and prices, invoices, or bills. Include as much information as possible, including the product name, size or quantity, manufacturer, item number and unit price. For lumber products, note the grade, thickness and quality. If it is gasoline, note the grade of gas and price per gallon. If it is a service such as storage or towing, note the per-mile (or other distance) charge, removal charges, per-day storage charges and other charges such as security, clean up or other “add-ons.” Report this information to the Attorney General’s Price Gouging Hotline at 1-866-966-7226. You may also report violations via the No Scam app or online at:
http://myfloridalegal.com or mail documents to the following address:
Office of the Attorney General
The Capitol, PL-01
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1050
Please remember to include your name and contact information, the name and address of the company or individual you suspect of price gouging, a description of why you believe price gouging occurred, and any documentation you may have.
For more information, contact Alachua County Communications Director Mark Sexton at 352-264-6979 or
msexton@alachuacounty.us.
