Attorney General Michelle Henry shared the following alert that price gouging protections are in effect in Erie County, following a major storm that deposited more than three feet of snow.

“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.”

Governor Shapiro’s declaration of a disaster emergency on November 30, 2024 allowed for specific protections to be triggered under state law to keep consumers and businesses safe from price gouging. Under state law that governs a disaster emergency, companies and vendors are prohibited from charging a price for consumer goods or services that exceeds 20 percent of the average price those goods or services were sold for in the 7 days preceding the date of the declaration.

Consumers who believe price gouging may be occurring in Erie County during this state of emergency should submit a complaint online at www.attorneygeneral.gov, or call the Bureau of Consumer Protection at 800-441-2555.

“Whether it’s a store over-charging you for a snow blower, a generator, or a simple necessity, if you think you’ve been price-gouged, our agents are here to protect you and enforce the law,” Attorney General Henry continued. “Call my office and tell us what’s happening in your community.”

The price-gouging law gives the Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection authority to investigate complaints and allows for penalties of up to $10,000 per violation, along with restitution.