Price Gouging Laws in Florida
It is highly illegal to charge more than the average price for gas during a state of emergency. This practice is unethical and will not be tolerated in the Southeast Petro Network. As an operator, you should familiarize yourself with the laws applicable to you and your station:
Florida Statute 501.160 states that during a state of emergency, it is unlawful to sell, lease, offer to sell, or offer for lease essential commodities, dwelling units, or self-storage facilities for an amount that grossly exceeds the average price for that commodity during the 30 days before the declaration of the state of emergency, unless the seller can justify the price by showing increases in its prices or market trends. Examples of necessary commodities are food, ice, gas, and lumber.