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COLUMBIA, S.C. (BFMG) — Reports of price gouging in South Carolina have surged as the state grapples with a series of emergencies, including severe weather and supply shortages. State officials warn that businesses taking advantage of vulnerable consumers will face swift legal action.
Price gouging, the illegal act of raising prices on essential goods during emergencies, has been a growing concern. The South Carolina Attorney General’s Office reported a spike in complaints following recent hurricanes, floods, and supply chain disruptions exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We want to make it clear that exploiting the public during a time of crisis will not be tolerated,” said Attorney General Alan Wilson in a recent statement. “We encourage consumers to report suspicious price hikes immediately so we can investigate.”
State law (SC §39-5-145) says that it is unlawful to “rent or sell or offer to rent or sell a commodity at an unconscionable price.” The law remains in effect until the declaration expires or is terminated.
Legal Protections and Consumer Rights
South Carolina law prohibits excessive price increases for essential goods and services during a declared state of emergency. This includes items such as food, gasoline, water, medical supplies, and even lodging.
“Businesses are entitled to raise prices modestly to cover the increased costs of operations during an emergency,” Wilson added. “However, unreasonable hikes intended to exploit consumers during their time of need are against the law.”
The penalties for price gouging in South Carolina are steep. Violators can face fines of up to $1,000 per incident and additional civil penalties. The state has already filed multiple lawsuits against retailers found guilty of gouging, particularly during and after hurricanes like Dorian and Ian, when evacuation orders led to increased demand for fuel, hotel rooms, and bottled water.
Identifying Price Gouging
Price increases aren’t always illegal, which makes identifying gouging difficult. The state allows businesses to raise prices proportionately if suppliers charge more or operational costs increase. However, officials recommend consumers be wary of drastic price hikes, especially on items that are typically affordable, such as bottled water or basic groceries.
Price gouging complaints often surface during natural disasters, but with ongoing inflation and supply chain issues, consumers are now noticing questionable price hikes even outside declared emergencies. The rise in complaints has prompted some lawmakers to consider extending price gouging protections to cover economic hardships caused by inflation.
How to Report Price Gouging
Consumers who suspect they’ve encountered price gouging are encouraged to report the incident to the Attorney General’s Office. Please report possible violations to pricegouging@scag.gov , call 803-737-3953 or fill out the below form if you have witnessed a likely violation.Complaints can be submitted online, by phone, or via email. The Attorney General’s Office requires details such as the item in question, the business where the purchase was made, and proof of pricing (such as receipts or photographs).
“We depend on the public to help us identify these incidents,” said Wilson. “Every report helps us protect consumers and enforce the law.”
Consumers are also urged to compare prices at different retailers and take note of pricing changes before and after an emergency is declared.
Historical Context and Future Outlook
South Carolina is no stranger to price gouging concerns. Past disasters such as Hurricane Hugo in 1989 and the floods of 2015 saw similar spikes in complaints. The state’s response to price gouging has become more robust over the years, with improved legislation and quicker investigative processes.
Looking forward, state officials are working to implement more stringent guidelines on what constitutes a fair price increase. In addition, consumer advocacy groups are pushing for broader protections, including measures to guard against price hikes driven by inflation and economic instability.
“We’re not only fighting price gouging during emergencies; we’re fighting to ensure fairness in the marketplace year-round,” said Carolina Consumer Advocacy Coalition spokesperson Sarah Greene. “As the economy remains uncertain, we must stay vigilant and hold businesses accountable.”
Price gouging is expected to remain a top issue as South Carolina continues to experience frequent weather events and the residual effects of the pandemic on supply chains. In the meantime, state officials vow to stay proactive, ensuring residents are protected from unethical pricing practices.
For more information on how to report price gouging, visit the South Carolina Attorney General’s website or call the consumer protection hotline
