Reitz Condemns Price Gouging, Scams During COVID-19 Outbreak

RED BUD, Ill. – After recent reports of businesses across the state charging outrageous prices for basic supplies, state Rep. Nathan Reitz, D-Steeleville, is alerting residents to be extra cautious of scams and price gouging amidst the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

“Many Southern Illinoisans are facing uncertainty right now and may already be struggling to make ends meet during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Reitz. “It is wrong for businesses to take advantage of Illinois families by charging ridiculously high prices for basic necessities, especially at a time when so many of us have fear of the future.”

Reitz is speaking out after reports of price gouging on necessary supplies like toilet paper, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes. Gov. Pritzker issued an executive order last week that prohibits price gouging and Attorney General Raoul’s office has begun to investigate allegations of bad behavior. Residents can report possible cases of price gouging and fraud related to COVID-19 at
www.IllinoisAttorneyGeneral.gov.

“It is extremely important that we each do our part to help stop the spread of COVID-19, and take extra precautions like practicing social distancing, washing hands more often and disinfecting commonly-touched surfaces like smartphones and countertops,” continued Reitz. “We are all in this together, so it is critical that we do not panic or hoard supplies and keep an eye out for price gouging and other scams to stop bad actors from preying upon our most vulnerable.”

For more information, reach out to Reitz’s constituent service office at RepNReitz@gmail.com or 618-282-7284.