Vice President Kamala Harris issued a stern warning against price gouging during hurricanes in a recent statement released by her office. She emphasized that any company or individual found engaging in such practices will be held accountable.
Harris stressed that it is unacceptable for Americans affected by a crisis to be taken advantage of through illegal price gouging or fraud. She specifically mentioned instances at gas stations, airports, and hotels where price gouging should not occur.
President Biden also chimed in on the matter, urging companies not to participate in price gouging during a recent event. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg echoed this sentiment, stating that his office is closely monitoring allegations of airline price gouging.
Buttigieg assured that the Department is keeping a close eye on flights to and from areas impacted by Hurricane Milton to ensure that airlines are not unfairly increasing fares.
Both Harris and Biden are actively involved in overseeing preparations for Hurricane Milton and relief efforts for Hurricane Helene. They are set to hold a briefing together to discuss the administration's initiatives in dealing with the hurricanes.