Texas AG Warns Harvey Could Lead to Price Gouging; Emergency Declared
Texas AG Warns Harvey Could Lead to Price Gouging; Emergency Declared
In preparation for Hurricane Harvey, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton warned Texans to watch out for price gouging and to contact his office to report scams.
Texas law classifies taking advantage of a disaster declared by the governor as a deceptive trade practice. That includes selling fuel at "an exorbitant or excessive price" or "demanding an exorbitant or excessive price" for fuel. The law provides no definition of excessive prices; however, retailers who spike fuel prices beyond what the normal market forces set will be pursued by the Texas Attorney General.
Gov. Greg Abbott preemptively declared a state of emergency for 30 Texas counties in preparation for Harvey, according to a state announcement. The counties are listed at http://bit.ly/2wCDTbP.
This is a reminder for retail and wholesale members to abide by the law and to operate responsibly.
Should you encounter what you believe is price gouging at the pump during Hurricane Harvey, please submit a Consumer Complaint Form.
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