Oklahoma AG Warns Of Scams And Price Gouging

05:09

May 23, 2013

Ben Osborne surveys the scene as he sorts through his tornado-ravaged home Wednesday, May 22, 2013, in Moore, Okla. (Charlie Riedel/AP)

As donations pour in for victims of Oklahoma's tornadoes, the state attorney general is warning residents to look out for scams and price gouging.

According to Attorney General Scott Pruit, there have already been reports of a hotel and a grocery store overcharging customers. The grocery store is accused of charging customers $40 for a case of water.

Price gouging is illegal in the areas of Oklahoma affected by the tornado, due to a law passed after a tornado hit the same region in 1999.

The Emergency Price Stabilization Act prohibits price increases of more than 10 percent on goods and services for 30 days after a disaster. The rule is in effect for 180 days for prices to repairs, remodeling and construction.

It's currently in effect for 16 Oklahoma counties.

Guest:

Scott Pruitt, Oklahoma Attorney General.

This segment aired on May 23, 2013.