North Carolina -- January 31, 2026: Western North Carolina residents should be aware that the state's price gouging laws have been activated following recent events due to the winter storm. The activation aims to protect consumers from inflated prices on essential goods and services during a state of emergency.
Key Consumer Rights and Protections
The price gouging law is statewide, including Western NC, due to a state of emergency declared on January 30, 2026. The law prohibits charging unreasonably excessive prices for essential goods, services, or rentals during the declared emergency. The law allows for reasonable price adjustments if higher costs are disclosed to consumers upfront.
The law is automatically triggered when the governor declares a state of emergency and remains active until the declaration is lifted.
An example of enforcement includes a case after Hurricane Helene where tree removal contractors were sued for charging a large sum of money upfront without completing the work. The court ordered refunds, contract cancellations, and a ban on their services.
How to Report Price Gouging
Residents of Western North Carolina can report suspected price gouging by calling 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or visiting www.ncdoj.gov/pricegouging. Swift action will be taken against offenders.
Residents should monitor prices on essentials. Businesses must justify any price increases transparently, as excessive profiteering is illegal.
WNCTimes
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