Manley Alerts Residents to Price Gouging, Scams Amid COVID-19 Crisis

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – In response to reports of businesses across the state raising prices on basic necessities during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, is alerting residents to be cautious of scams, price gouging and other predatory practices.

“The COVID-19 crisis has caused a lot of uncertainty and stress for local families, as the governor’s stay-at-home order has been extended through the end of May and many residents are out of work,” said Manley. “It is wrong for businesses and scammers to take advantage of the fear and anxiety many residents are feeling by marking up prices on basic supplies like toilet paper and hand sanitizer to increase their profit margins at our expense.”

After statewide reports of price gouging on supplies like toilet paper, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes, Manley is highlighting an executive order issued by Gov. J.B. Pritzker that prohibits price gouging. Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s office has begun to investigate allegations of bad behavior, and residents can report possible cases of price gouging and fraud related to COVID-19 at www.IllinoisAttorneyGeneral.gov.

“To flatten the curve and help combat the spread of COVID-19, it is up to each of us to continue following recommendations on social distancing and staying home as much as possible,” continued Manley. “If you do need to venture out for groceries and supplies, keep an eye out for scammers and other bad actors and report them to stop them from preying upon local families during this time.”

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