Consumers, merchants and businesses are advised that the price freeze and restricted sale order issued on Sunday, Aug. 29, is hereby lifted, according to a press release from Commissioner Wayne L. Biggs Jr. of the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs The prize freeze was put into effect as a result of the territory being under immediate threat of Hurricane Earl. As weather conditions have improved and Earl has left the territory, DLCA has determined that the threat of imminent damage is no longer evident.

DLCA reminds all merchants and businesses that part of its mission is to assist and protect consumers. “As we remain in the heart of the hurricane season, I urge all businesses to comply with orders issued by the department to avoid being assessed penalties for acts of price gouging,” said Biggs.

Various businesses are also reminded that they must continue to submit an updated hurricane price list on the first of each month until Nov. 30. Every year, at the onset of hurricane season, businesses are required to furnish monthly official price lists of goods and merchandise in stock, and for the services they offer to the public.

If a business has not changed its prices or acquired new products/services, it can submit a letter certifying that the previous price list turned in is still valid. Businesses can opt to submit price list information electronically on a compact disc to DLCA.

It is primarily targeted at businesses whose goods and services are necessary for hurricane preparation and recovery. Businesses that must submit price lists include all supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience stores, pharmacies, hardware stores, water and delivery businesses, contractors, carpenters, plumbers, electricians and masons. Failure to submit a price list or certification letter by the first of each month will result in a $1,000 fine per violation.