California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued a stern warning to individuals attempting to exploit wildfire victims through price gouging. Bonta emphasized that such actions are illegal and carry severe consequences, including fines and potential jail time. The Attorney General's remarks came during a news conference held on Saturday morning.
Bonta expressed concern over the presence of opportunistic individuals who seek to profit from the chaos and vulnerability of those affected by wildfires. He highlighted the importance of remaining vigilant and prepared during emergencies to prevent such exploitation.
Under the current state of emergency in Ventura and Los Angeles counties, price gouging is strictly prohibited by California law. Violators can face penalties of up to a year in jail and fines of $10,000. The law dictates that businesses cannot increase prices by more than 10% for goods or services compared to pre-emergency levels.
In cases where businesses only began offering certain items after the emergency declaration, they are limited to charging no more than 50% above the original cost of the item. Bonta underscored the need for compliance with these regulations to protect consumers from unscrupulous practices.
Authorities are urging the public to report any instances of suspected price gouging to prevent further harm to wildfire victims. By upholding these laws, California aims to safeguard affected communities and ensure fair treatment for all individuals during times of crisis.
