NY Attorney General Warns of Price Gouging Before Winter Storm

Letitia James issues consumer alert as another storm approaches the state.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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New York Attorney General Letitia James has issued a consumer alert warning New Yorkers about potential price gouging ahead of an upcoming winter storm expected to impact the state in the coming days.

Why it matters

Price gouging during emergencies and natural disasters can take advantage of vulnerable consumers, making essential goods and services unaffordable. The Attorney General's warning aims to protect New Yorkers from unfair business practices during the storm.

The details

In the alert, Attorney General James cautioned that businesses cannot raise prices excessively on essential items like food, water, gas, generators, and other emergency supplies. The state's price gouging law prohibits merchants from charging unconscionably excessive prices during natural disasters or other emergencies.

  • The winter storm is expected to impact New York in the coming days.

The players

Letitia James

The Attorney General of New York, who issued the consumer alert warning about potential price gouging ahead of the upcoming winter storm.

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What they’re saying

“Winter weather is no excuse for price gouging”

— Letitia James, New York Attorney General (New York State Office of the Attorney General)

What’s next

The Attorney General's office will monitor reports of price gouging during the storm and take enforcement action against any businesses found to be violating the state's price gouging laws.

The takeaway

The Attorney General's warning highlights the importance of protecting consumers from unfair business practices, especially during emergencies when people are most vulnerable. New Yorkers should remain vigilant and report any suspected price gouging to the authorities.