4 Things You Need To Know About Price Gouging

                           
It’s Illegal

After a state of emergency is declared by the President, Emergency Declared by California Governor, or City Council Declares an Emergency, it is illegal for a person to sell food, emergency supplies, medical supplies, building materials, housing, transportation, or gasoline for a price that is more than ten percent (10%) greater than the price normally charged by that person for those products or services. (Cal. Penal Code § 396) The governor has extended Price Gouging enforcement through September 4, 2020.

                                   
Price Gouging Will Be Enforced

Prosecutors are actively accepting cases for price gouging during this state of emergency. Not every instance of price increase will be a violation of law. For example, retailers can raise prices if directly attributable to additional supplier costs, but 100% of complaints will be investigated and all viable cases will be pursued in court. See Attorney General’s Frequently Asked Questions here.                          

Penalties Are Severe

Each violation of Penal Code 396 constitutes a misdemeanor crime, punishable by imprisonment in County Jail for up to one year, a $10,000 fine, or both. Violators may also face civil penalties for unfair business practices.

       

You can Report Price Gouging

If you observe Price Gouging in Long Beach, you can report it here.  Include as much detail as possible. The Long Beach City Prosecutor’s Office is also working with the Los Angeles District Attorney and Los Angeles City Attorney to ensure complaints are addressed.  You can also file a complaint with the City of Los Angeles and the Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs. 

 

CLICK HERE TO REPORT PRICE GOUGING.