Price Gouging Hotline Activated After State of Emergency Declared

TALLAHASSEE, FL -- Attorney General Charlie Crist activated a toll free hotline Wednesday for Florida consumers to report suspected price gouging associated with Tropical Storm Bonnie and Hurricane Charley. This action follows Governor Bush's official declaration of an emergency for the State of Florida.

Consumers who suspect they are being charged too much because of Tropical Storm Bonnie or Hurricane Charley should call the hotline at 1-800-646-0444. Investigators will then look into the complaint.

Florida law prohibits extreme increases in price of food, water, hotels, ice, gasoline, lumber and equipment considered necessary for use as a direct result of an officially declared emergency.

Violators of the price gouging statute are subject to civil penalties of $1,000 per violation up to a total of $25,000 for multiple violations committed in a single 24-hour period.

The Attorney General is also warning consumers to be wary of business scams in the wake of Tropical Storm Bonnie and Hurricane Charley. These scams include building repair and tree removal services. Crist says residents should deal with local established companies whenever possible for repairs or financing any repairs not covered by insurance.

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