NY Attorney General warns that price gouging is illegal amid formula shortage

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — New York Attorney General Letitia James Wednesday warned retailers that price gouging is illegal amid a nationwide shortage in baby formula.

The supply chain disruptions caused by pandemic rules began the shortage and it was worsened by a massive recall in February.

James said the Office of the Attorney General has received reports that baby formula is being sold online for prices far exceeding its retail value, which is illegal. James said it is not illegal for stores to limit the amount of a product that customers can purchase.

She said consumers who see price-gouging should take note of the specific increased prices, the dates, and places that they saw the increased prices, and the types of formula being sold and provide copies of their sales receipts and photos of the advertised prices, if available when they report it to her office by filing a complaint online or by calling 800-771-7755.