Bill aimed at price gouging becomes law

Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan on Thursday, Sept. 10, signed a bill that protects consumers from unfair trade practices and price gouging on goods or services in Ulster County during a declared emergency.

Through the legislation, approved by the Ulster County Legislature on Aug. 18, businesses are prohibited from increasing the price on products that include, but are not limited to sanitizing wipes, hand sanitizer, toilet paper and other items of necessity during the COVID-19 pandemic and any other items of necessity during a declared emergency.

Violators face a fine of $250 to $5,000 per day and will be referred to the county District Attorney’s office for prosecution.

Under the law, businesses are prohibited from increasing the price of essential goods and services sold during or immediately after a declared state of emergency by more than 25 percent on items less than $499.99; 15 percent on items between $500 and $2,499.99; 10 percent on items between $2,500 and $9,999.99; and more than 2 percent on items that cost $100,000 or more.

Consumers looking to make a claim under the law should contact the Ulster County Recovery Service Center at (845) 443-8888 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Mondays and Fridays or 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays or by email at RSC@co.ulster. ny.us.