The demand for winter storm supplies can drive up prices, but some increases are illegal.
Price gouging laws are in effect during declared emergencies, according to Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman. He says violations happen when sellers charge grossly excessive prices for essential goods and services.
In Kentucky, retailers can face fines of up to $25,000. State law considers a price increase of more than 10 percent illegal once an emergency is declared. Coleman says the most common complaints involve fuel, heating oil, ice melt, and other necessities.
West Virginia has a similar law. Officials there say prices cannot exceed 10 percent above pre-emergency costs.