HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Local leaders are raising concerns about businesses exploiting the Hurricane Beryl disaster. As you shop, officials urge you to be vigilant about pricing.
“We’re talking about essentials like food, gasoline, water, and lodging,” Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee said. “If you notice prices are significantly higher than usual, you should report it to the county attorney’s office.”
With the Houston area under a disaster declaration a week after Hurricane Beryl, businesses are prohibited from taking advantage of the situation. Violators face penalties. Menefee’s office has already received over 180 price-gouging complaints.
“I know there are even more people out there who have witnessed this but haven’t reported it,” Menefee said. “We want as many reports as possible.”
If you suspect price gouging, here’s what to do:
– Take a photo or keep the receipt.
– Write down details like the business name and date.
– Note employee names.
“If we have evidence like a photograph, we can send an investigator to the scene. They show the picture and inform the business, ‘We know what you’re doing. You need to stop,'” Menefee explained. “In almost 100% of cases, we see compliance.”
Officials advise looking for signs like a 50-cent increase in gas prices, doubled water prices, or hotels charging much more than usual. Reporting these incidents can help protect your money and benefit others.
“We all have a duty to support our community and help our neighbors recover after this disaster,” Menefee said. “If you see something, say something.”
