Stores that are selling the essentials such as toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and soap are currently having trouble keeping those items on the shelves, which is leading to higher prices.
While this practice is legal, Michelle Reinen from the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection says it becomes illegal when the price jumps too much.
She is telling consumers, “Now we have to wach the prices of things to make sure they don’t go up more than they should.”
Reinen wants to ensure everyone that they are taking all reports of price gouging very seriously.
She told SeehaferNews.com, “We are looking at every single report and situation that we can…We want consumers, if they are encountering uncommon prices for products, and they believe…that increase is not because of increased demand or low supply, they should report that to Consumer Protection.”
She says that they are seeing some scam cases as well, including emails that promote a cure or remedy for COVID-19, and robo-calls regarding test results, even if the individual never even took a test.
If you believe a company is engaging in price gouging, or if you receive a scam call or email, you are encouraged to report it to the DATCP.
