Price gougers will be fined and prosecuted, Fresno leaders warn
Fresno city officials are warning consumers about local retailers “price gouging” for necessary goods, such as bottled water, in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.
They’re sending a message to violators, too.
“This is not a time to profit from challenging times,” said Fresno City Councilmember Luis Chavez. “Unscrupulous vendors will be fined and prosecuted to the full extent of the law for price gouging. Seniors and vulnerable populations need to have access to hygienic and disinfectant supplies. Everyone’s health depends on it. The more precautions we take now, the faster we can overcome this situation.”
Chavez said his office and the city received numerous reports of price gouging, particularly in southern parts of the city.
A state of emergency was declared in California on March 4, making it illegal to raise the price of necessary goods and services by more than 10%. Violators could face one year in prison or jail and a fine up to $10,000.
Stores aisles throughout Fresno are empty as residents stockpile toilet paper, canned foods and dried goods.
Chavez posted a photo to Facebook of a local market selling a 24-pack of Dasani bottled water for more than $40.
Andy Chhikara, the Fresno chapter president of the American Petroleum and Convenience Store Association, said his members were directed not to price gouge and instead help educate and protect their customers.
“We are not here to make money during this crisis,” he said. “We’re here to help the community.”
Many of the stores are struggling to keep up with demand on certain items, Chhikara said. Store owners worry they won’t be able to get merchandise from their suppliers. In the meantime, they’ve imposed buying limits on certain items.
The 300 Fresno stores who are APCA members were directed to make sure employees wash their hands and wear gloves. Stores also were given educational posters.
Residents of the county’s rural towns with fewer large retailers could be subject to more intense price gouging.
“Most people in these towns work in ag or the informal economy, so they can’t fall back on paid sick leave or savings, and without them our economy would fall apart,” Councilmember Miguel Arias said. “That’s why we need to intervene immediately. We all depend on their survival.”
Arias said he experienced price gouging firsthand in his hometown of Mendota while trying to buy toilet paper for his parents. Since he spoke English, he received a lower price.
“This just goes to show that in a crisis we will see the best and worst of our character,” he said. “We have to make sure it’s the best part of us that responds right now.”
California Attorney General Xavier Becerra warned consumers about price gouging earlier this month after the state of emergency declaration.
“Communities throughout our state are working to prevent and treat this public health threat,” Becerra said. “Californians shouldn’t have to worry about being cheated while dealing with the effects of coronavirus.”
Fresno County declared a state of emergency on Sunday over to COVID-19 pandemic. Mayor Lee Brand said the city council will meet Monday to announce steps the city is taking to address the situation.
Price gouging may be reported to city of Fresno code enforcement at 559-621-8400 or the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office at 559-600-3156.