Yesterday, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency for our state as Hurricane Irma nears the Florida coast. We’re unsure how this hurricane will affect members of the Upstate, but at the very least, we could see an influx of visitors from our coast and other states affected (Charleston Southern University has already announced it will be shutting down campus today). Which is why the Governor has put the price gouging law into effect. Although we should expect some price increases, McMaster warns that any business that takes unfair advantage of the following could face a $1,000 fine or 30 days in jail.
🍔 Food
⛽️ Gasoline
🏨 Lodging
Or other commodities
Although parameters were not specifically set (i.e. how much of an increase is gouging?) if you feel like you’re being taken advantage of, you can contact pricegouging@scag.gov or call 803-737-3953.