This week, Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in response to the spread of COVID-19 in Florida. When the governor makes an emergency declaration, the state’s price gouging laws go into effect. To help deter any price gouging related to COVID-19, I activated Florida’s Price Gouging Hotline.

This is a precautionary action meant to protect consumers and there is no cause for panic. If anyone does encounter what they believe to be price gouging of an essential commodity, they should report it to the hotline by calling 1(866) 9NO-SCAM or by visiting MyFloridaLegal.com.

At this time, essential commodities include only the following items:

• Protective masks used to protect you from others if you are sick;
• Sanitizing and disinfecting supplies, such as hand sanitizer, gel, wipes, cleaning supplies for surface cleaning and all commercial cleaning supplies; and
• All personal protective equipment, including gowns, booties, gloves and other protective gear.

Floridians can also report concerns about pricing of essential commodities to my office using our new price gouging reporting app NO SCAM. The app can be downloaded on Apple and Android smartphones for free.

For instruction on how to use the app, click here.

For tips on reporting possible price gouging, click here.

We are monitoring the COVID-19 situation in Florida very closely, and my Consumer Protection Division’s rapid response team is ready to immediately respond to allegations of price gouging.

Be on the lookout for scams and guard against possible gouging, but remember, the best thing you can do right now is heed the advice of health experts—wash hands regularly and stay home if you are ill.

If every Floridian takes steps to guard their health and prevent the spread of this new virus, we can reduce the impact of COVID-19. Let’s work together to build a Stronger, Safer Florida.