During a storm-related declared State of Emergency, Florida state law prohibits excessive increases in the price of essential commodities, such as food, water, hotel rooms, ice, gasoline, lumber, equipment and storm-related services needed as a direct result of the event.
Anyone caught violating the price gouging statute could face civil penalties of $1,000 per violation and up to $25,000 for multiple violations in a single 24-hour period. State law also criminalizes selling goods and services without a business tax receipt.
If anyone suspects price gouging, it can be reported by calling 1(866) 9NO-SCAM, filing online at http://www.MyFloridaLegal.com or use the Florida Attorney General’s No Scam reporting app.
