Release courtesy of Gloucester County:
The Gloucester County Board of Commissioners and the N.J. Office of Consumer Protection is warning both businesses and residents of New Jersey’s strong price gouging laws.
The New Jersey law prohibits price increases of more than 10% during a state of emergency and for at least 30 days after the declaration is terminated.
“Our county business would never price gouge intentionally,” Commissioner Director Robert Damminger said. “It’s important that everyone knows the law during this time and that we’re working together towards recovery.”
Any merchant that unlawfully increases the price for food, gas, hotel rooms, generators or other necessary items or services in connection with the State of Emergency faces serious consequences, not only from local officials, but from the State Office of Consumer Affairs and the Office of the Attorney General.
Commissioner Lyman Barnes, Liaison to the County Office of Weights and Measures, agrees.
“Any consumer who feels they may have been the target of price gouging during this emergency status should call the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs immediately so that it can be investigated,” Barnes said.
The phone number for Consumer Affairs is (973) 504-6200 and if the complaint concerns gasoline stations, the number for Weights and Measures is 856-307-6612 or visit www.gloucestercountynj.gov.
