Price Gouging Law in Effect in South Carolina

Observer Reports

With winter weather expected to sweep across South Carolina this weekend, Gov. Henry McMaster has declared a state of emergency, triggering the state’s price gouging law.

Attorney General Alan Wilson said Thursday the move is a precaution as officials prepare for potential power outages, travel disruptions, and other storm-related impacts.

“This is just a precaution, and we’re not seeing any impacts yet, but we have to be prepared,” Wilson said. “If this storm does cause problems, we could see normal price increases for goods and services, and those are not considered price gouging under our law.”

Under state law, businesses and individuals are prohibited from charging “unconscionable” prices for necessities such as food, gasoline, lodging, and emergency services like tree removal during a declared emergency. The rule remains in effect until the state of emergency is lifted or terminated. Violations are considered misdemeanor offenses, punishable by up to a $1,000 fine and 30 days in jail.

Wilson emphasized that legitimate market fluctuations are expected during periods of high demand and do not constitute illegal activity.

Residents who believe they have encountered price gouging are encouraged to gather detailed information before filing a report, including:

• The time, location, and name of the business

• The price paid and nearby competitors’ prices

• Photos of the price or signage

• Their own contact information

Reports can be emailed to pricegouging@scag.gov or submitted online at scag.gov.

Those without internet access can call 803-737-3953 and leave a message with the details.