By Pacific Island Times News Staff
Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero asked Attorney General Douglas Moylan to look into residents’ complaints regarding alleged price gouging by “individuals preying on people's desperation” after typhoon Mawar.
“I have received numerous reports of price gouging by electricians repairing and certifying the repairs of weatherheads and/or electrical components damaged by typhoon Mawar,” the governor said.
The Guam Power Authority requires customers to have master electricians complete all repairs to damaged weatherheads and/or electrical components and obtain a master electrician's certification that the repairs have been properly completed before power can be restored. This is to ensure the safety of both customers and GPA crews.
“The reportsI have received indicate that numerous electricians may have been charging two to three times the rate that existed prior to typhoon Mawar," the governor said.
Prior to the storm, the Office of the Attorney General issued a warning that it would prosecute merchants who violate the Consumer Protection Act. The OAG earlier reported that it received nine complaints of price gouging.
“I imagine there have been many more complaints since the publication of those articles. Anytime my staff and I receive reports of price gouging, we inform individuals that your office has purview over these matters,” the governor said. “I commend your office's protection of our island's residents, many of whom have been left vulnerable as a result of the storm."
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