NY AG warns of possible price gouging after ban on Russian fuel

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — New York Attorney Letitia James Tuesday warned consumers to be on the lookout for potential price gouging after President Joe Biden announced the United States will ban imports of Russian oil, natural gas, and coal.

James says New Yorkers should prepare for prices to go up after this decision, but state law does prohibit sellers of fuel and other vital and necessary goods from charging "unconscionably excessive" prices during an abnormal market disruption.

Consumers who do notice dramatic increases in the price of gasoline or fuel should make note of the specific increased prices, dates and places, provide copies of their sales receipts and photos of the advertised prices, if available and report it to the Office of the Attorney General.

James also said New Yorkers should only buy as much fuel as they need, and not stock up out of fear of a potential shortage.