Associated Press Published

W.Va. AG Filing Subpoenas for Water Price Gouging

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West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey is filing subpoenas over reported price hikes on water amid a ban on running water.
 
     Morrisey said his office received more than 150 calls and documented 74 reports of people selling water or other goods at higher prices. The office will follow up with letters and subpoenas.
 
     It’s illegal in West Virginia to raise prices on essential products and services by more than 10 percent in a state of emergency. Maximum penalties include a $1,000 fine and a year in jail.
 
     Morrisey says many reports were over doubled prices for packs of water bottles. The office heard one seller charged $50 for five gallons.
 
     The office began fielding complaints a day after last Thursday’s chemical spill. Reports of gouging dwindled when water reserves arrived.