UPDATE: Jan. 28 at 3:45 p.m.
Kentucky's Attorney General is warning residents to watch for price gouging as winter storms continue to batter the Commonwealth under a state of emergency.
Attorney General Russell Coleman said his office has received 74 reports of suspected price gouging since Friday, with most complaints involving fuel prices for gasoline, kerosene and propane.
"Severe weather makes us more vulnerable, and scammers know it," Coleman said. "Protecting Kentucky consumers during emergencies is a core responsibility of our Office."
Kentuckians can report suspected price gouging online or by calling the Attorney General's Price Gouging Hotline at 1-888-432-9257. The Attorney General's Office of Consumer Protection reviews all complaints to determine if violations have occurred.
Kentucky law defines price gouging as charging more than 10% above pre-emergency prices when the increase isn't related to higher costs for the seller. The law covers essential goods and services including food, gasoline, natural gas, heating oil, shelter, transportation, emergency cleanup and repair services like tree removal.
When filing complaints, consumers should include detailed information about the suspected gouging and provide accurate contact information.
The Attorney General's office has pursued numerous enforcement actions since Kentucky's General Assembly passed anti-price gouging legislation nearly two decades ago, holding companies accountable for exploiting residents during vulnerable times.
Original Story:
Attorney General Russel Coleman has activated a price gouging hotline for residents, as Kentucky is currently under a state of emergency due to the imminent winter storms.
"During rough weather like this, Kentuckians should only be concerned about their families’ safety, not whether they are being exploited. Our Office is determined to protect Kentuckians and their access to essential goods and services," said Coleman.
According to a press release, any Kentuckian who suspects price gouging is to report at this link, or call 1-888-432-9257. While reporting, the resident is encouraged to provide as much detail as possible, including the location, product, and price of the product.
Kentuckian's price gouging law includes necessities such as food, shelter, heating, transportation, repair, construction services, and gasoline. Kentucky law defines price gouging as an excessive charge, more than 10% above the regular price of a product, not related to higher costs to the seller, according to the release.
To report price gouging, visit this link: Price Gouging Complaint Form
