South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson has activated the state’s price gouging law following a state of emergency declaration by Governor Henry McMaster. This move comes as wildfires continue to burn across the state, affecting thousands of acres.
“According to the State Fire Marshal, there are response operations going on for more than 175 wildfires across the state affecting thousands of acres. We could see normal price increases, and those are not considered price gouging under our law. But we may see businesses and individuals looking to unfairly take advantage of the situation through price gouging of food, gasoline, lodging, and other commodities as defined by the statute. By our law, that’s a criminal violation and an unfair trade practice,” Attorney General Wilson said.
The state’s anti-price gouging statute (SC §39-5-145) prohibits excessive pricing during disasters. It remains in effect until the emergency status is lifted or expires. Violators face misdemeanor charges with penalties including a $1,000 fine or up to 30 days in jail.
Residents suspecting they have been victims of price gouging are encouraged to report incidents for investigation. Information can be submitted via email at [email protected], through the website https://www.scag.gov/price-gouging/, or by calling 803-737-3953.
