Hurricanes Helene and Milton Spark Price Gouging Outcry

In the United States, particularly Florida, airlines, hotels, and other companies have been accused of price gouging during the crises caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. As Hurricane Milton approached Florida as a Category 5 storm, federal lawmakers, including the head of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, called for stricter regulations to prevent companies from exploiting vulnerable residents. Reports indicated that prices for flights and accommodations surged dramatically, with some hotel rooms exceeding $600 per night and flights costing over $1,000. This situation has led to hundreds of complaints to Florida's attorney general regarding price gouging, especially for essential items like fuel and water. The Biden administration has acknowledged the issue, with the Transportation Department reaching out to airlines to address the affordability of flights in the affected areas. Despite some airlines capping fares, many travelers reported exorbitant last-minute ticket prices. Lawmakers emphasized that such price gouging not only hampers evacuations but also complicates recovery efforts for those impacted by the hurricanes. They called for a comprehensive federal response to protect residents from corporate exploitation during emergencies. The situation highlights the need for a federal ban on price gouging and stronger antitrust laws to prevent similar occurrences in the future. As the hurricanes continue to pose threats, the focus remains on ensuring that essential services remain accessible and affordable for those in need.