Gov. Bevin has activated the state’s prohibitions on price gouging to protect consumers during the winter storm that has affected most of the Commonwealth. The price gouging emergency order took effective this morning.
“In coordination with state authorities, I have put in effect prohibitions on price gouging in order to ensure Kentuckians pay appropriate prices on essential services and supplies during this winter storm,” said Gov. Bevin. “Safety remains our top priority as we dig out of the snow. I urge Kentuckians to continue to monitor road conditions before leaving the house and report any price gouging activity to the Attorney General’s office.”
The emergency order triggers several consumer protection measures that will remain in place for 30 days, but may be extended past that time as needed. This order empowers the Attorney General’s office to be on the lookout for consumers and prosecute, where appropriate, any instances of price gouging including, generators, building supplies, chainsaws, hotel rooms and other necessary goods and services at an exorbitant price in a time of disaster.
“Kentuckians should never be subjected to price gouging by retailers and this is especially true during a natural disaster,” Attorney General Beshear said. “My office and all of its resources stand ready to investigate and even prosecute cases of identifiable predatory pricing. I appreciate Gov. Bevin issuing this emergency declaration on price gouging to help protect Kentucky consumers. During this time of crisis, we are asking Kentuckians to be cautious when purchasing goods and services.”
Beshear is encouraging anyone with specific information regarding possible price gouging to contact the Office of the Attorney General at (888) 432-9257 or e-mail consumerprotection@ky.gov.
