Friday, January 10, 2025

LA County to Crack Down on Price Gouging Amid Fire Emergencies

CITY NEWS SERVICE

As firefighters battle several fires ravaging the Southland, L.A. County officials Friday warned businesses against the illegal practice of price gouging and urged residents to report suspected violations.

Under California law, price gouging during a declared emergency is a serious offense. Businesses are prohibited from raising prices on essential goods and services, including hotel rooms, rental housing and some supplies by more than 10% during an emergency.

Price-gouging protections remain in effect for 30 days following an emergency declaration. For contractor-related services, protections extend up to 180 days.

Business owners and operators must maintain detailed records of pricing before, during and after a declared emergency, according to the county Department of Consumer and Business Affairs.

Violations can result in fines up to $10,000, one year in jail, or both.

“Los Angeles County residents should not have to be burdened with price hikes by unscrupulous businesses when they are already dealing with the disruption and stress of life-threatening emergencies,” DCBA Director Rafael Carbajal said in a statement. “We stand ready to investigate reports of price gouging and to hold violators accountable.”

Consumers who suspect price gouging are encouraged to keep receipts, invoices or other records. They can report violations online at stoppricegouging.dcba.lacounty.gov or by calling 800-593-8222.

The county is actively monitoring prices in impacted communities and coordinating with local prosecutors to address alleged violations.

Price gouging laws have been enforced in recent months during crises such as the Rancho Palos Verdes landslides, the Bridge Fire in the Angeles National Forest and the Franklin Fire in Malibu.

The County Board of Supervisors reactivated such enforcement ability when it declared a local emergency due to the winds and fires on Jan. 7.