Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody has extended the state’s Price Gouging Hotline in anticipation of Tropical Storm Milton, which is expected to intensify as it moves through the Gulf of Mexico. This move follows a state of emergency declaration for regions that could be affected by the storm.
The hotline was already in effect for counties under emergency orders due to Hurricane Helene and will now cover areas bracing for Milton.
“Tropical Storm Milton is expected to rapidly strengthen as it churns through the Gulf of Mexico and heads toward areas in our state that have already experienced tremendous flooding and damage from Hurricane Helene,” said Attorney General Moody. “We are extending Florida’s Price Gouging Hotline to help Floridians prepare for this new challenge. I’m urging everyone to monitor weather reports, get preparations in place, and follow the guidance of local authorities. Stay safe, Florida.”
Read: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Urges Prep Ahead Of Tropical Storm Milton’s Landfall
Under Florida law, price gouging on essential items such as food, gasoline, hotel rooms, water, ice, lumber, and equipment is prohibited during a declared state of emergency.
Floridians who suspect price gouging can report it to the Attorney General’s Office via the website MyFloridaLegal.com or by calling the hotline at 1(866) 9NO-SCAM. More information on how to recognize price gouging can be found in the Scams at a Glance: Price Gouging guide provided by the Attorney General’s Office.
In addition, residents are urged to be cautious of post-storm scams. The Scams at a Glance: After the Storm resource offers tips to avoid fraud during recovery efforts.
Violations of Florida’s price gouging laws can result in penalties of $1,000 per violation, with fines up to $25,000 for multiple violations occurring in a single day.
Read: Tampa Offers Free Sandbags And Tarps As Heavy Rain Threatens City
Stay prepared, stay informed, and stay safe, Florida.
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