Erie, PA (WJET/WFXP)-- Pennsylvania Attorney General Michelle Henry is reminding customers and businesses in Erie there are protections in place against anyone looking to use the winter weather to price gouge goods and services.
AG Henry put out the notice Wednesday morning saying whether it's a store over-charging you for a snow blower, a generator, or a simple necessity, residents can call her office to report it.
“As the impact of this winter storm continues to be felt, Pennsylvanians should be aware of potential price-gouging and the laws in place to protect them from unfair price increases during emergencies,” Attorney General Henry said. “If you suspect price gouging, you should report it to our Bureau of Consumer Protection.”
Consumer and business protections come as part of Governor Shapiro's disaster emergency declaration issued on Nov. 30 that prohibits charging 20% or more of the average price those goods or services were sold for seven days before the declaration.
Anyone found guilty of price gouging can face up to $10,000 per violation, along with restitution.
Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of price gouging can report it by calling the Bureau of Consumer Protection at 800-441-2555 or online here.