Price gouging occurs when retailers or other sellers take advantage of the increased demand and insufficient supply of goods and services—often commodities and basic necessities—following a natural disaster, war, civil unrest, or other event, and increase prices beyond a fair or reasonable amount.
In the state of Alaska, price gouging is not specifically addressed by a standalone statute. However, the state can address price gouging under its Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection laws. These laws prohibit unfair or deceptive acts or practices in the conduct of trade or commerce. While Alaska does not have a statute that explicitly defines what constitutes an excessive price increase during emergencies, the Attorney General's office can investigate complaints of price gouging as potentially unfair or deceptive practices. Consumers who believe they have been victims of price gouging are encouraged to file a complaint with the Alaska Attorney General's Consumer Protection Unit. It is important to note that during a declared state of emergency, additional regulations may be put into place that could more directly address price gouging.