Governor Roy Cooper has announced a state of emergency in North Carolina as the winter storm is now upon us.

The Attorney Josh Stein has issued an announcement that says the price gouging law that that protects North Carolina consumers from scammers is now in effect.  The Attorney General has notified businesses and consumers today to be on the lookout for any issues.

 “As the season's first winter storm approaches, I want to remind North Carolinians that my office is here to protect them from price gougers,” said Attorney General Josh Stein. “Under a state of emergency, it is against the law to charge excessive prices. If you see a business taking advantage of this storm, please let my office know so we can hold them accountable.”

The statute will be in effect for the entire state and will be lifted when the state of emergency is lifted.

Please take precautions and protect yourselves from those who seek to take advantage during this first winter storm.