As Kentuckians dig out from deep snow, Governor Steve Beshear issued two executive orders on Tuesday (Feb. 17) to protect consumers from price gouging and to ensure families have access to needed prescription medicines.
“Both of these orders will help Kentuckians manage the effects of the storm, knowing that they will pay fair prices for goods like gasoline and won’t have to worry about skipping doses of maintenance medications,” said Gov. Beshear.
Price Gouging Executive Order
At the request of Attorney General Jack Conway, the Governor activated the state’s prohibitions on price gouging. The emergency declaration triggers several consumer protection measures that will remain in place for 30 days, but may be extended past that time as needed.
The order empowers the Attorney General to investigate and prosecute, where appropriate, those who sell gasoline, generators, building supplies, chain saws, hotel rooms and other necessary goods and services at an exorbitant price in a time of disaster.
“I encourage all Kentuckians to take caution during this time of emergency, keep your families safe and remember those around us that may need a helping hand," Attorney General Conway said.
"I have made it clear that I will not tolerate unscrupulous retailers who seek excessive profits during emergency situations. Kentuckians who are digging out from this storm should not be victimized again by predatory pricing,” added Conway.
Anyone with specific information regarding possible price gouging should contact the Office of the Attorney General at 1-888-432-9257.
Prescription Drug Executive Order
The Governor also issued an order which allows pharmacists to refill up to a 30-day supply of needed prescriptions without a physician’s refill order, excluding controlled substances. This order is effective in every county in Kentucky.
This executive order will be in effect through Tuesday, Feb. 24.
“We recommend that patients contact their providers first to renew a prescription,” said Dr. Stephanie Mayfield, Commissioner of Public Health.
“In the event patients and pharmacists are unable to reach the providers due to severe weather, this executive order enables pharmacists to appropriately assist patients for emergency refills,” added Mayfield.
(story provided by Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear's Communications Office)
