Price Gouging During Winter Storm

Officials in Texas say the winter storm that knocked out power and water to millions of residents provided an opportunity for some unscrupulous merchants to take advantage of the situation by charging exorbitant prices for essential supplies. The Texas Attorney General’s Office urged residents who suspect being price-gouging victims to file a complaint with their office. Violators may be required to reimburse consumers and face civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation, with additional penalties of up to $250,000 imposed if the victims are elderly.