I saw on the news tonight that President Bush has already taken action to make getting Federal assistance on the ground a little quicker. It has been reported that he has preemptively declared a disaster emergency in Texas. I'm not familiar with Texas law but here in Alabama that would mean that our provisional laws pertaining to price gouging would be implemented. I'm sure the AG's office has information that clarifies where you stand and how to report those who would take advantage of folks in need. I'll be praying for y'all!!!

 

Is this concerning fuel prices I assume?

 

I would think pretty much anything that's for sale would be covered. Here, I think retailers can get away with about a 10% bump but after that, they better have good records. Our AG prosecuted a bunch of folks after Katrina. The investigation alone would be a pain. It's sad to see the prices some stores charged for plywood, ice and water after Katrina. Generators were out of site.

 

Rules and laws against price gouging are unconstitutional and just wrong. They result in goods not being available at all instead of available at the right price. The people who bring in needed supplies usually incur higher costs and sometimes great risks. The free market always works to bring goods to consumers at the lowest cost. If a merchant raises prices he reduces demand and increases competition, in a free market that is. When prices are regulated you end up with shortages.

Edwin

 

Why has Texas been declared a disaster area? Did I miss something?

 

Deans Arrival

 

hopefully it wont be that bad for the south texas guys........looks like there not going to get a direct hit like mexico is, but still isnt a fun experience!

 

there is a member here that works for FEMA in washington(state) who was deployed to texas saturday morning just in case.

 

Last I heard Dean was headed for Mexico...not Texas. Better to be prepared though.

 

Yeah, but as you can see there have been some disturbances in Texas coming out of the gulf, which may make it favorable to shift its track and move our way. This year has been full of surprises. i now go to bed wondering what will happen tomorrow.

 

Bring it!

 

Well, for my part, I have a step father living in Brownsville who sure doesn't need any excitement added to his life. Fortunately, he's smart enough to leave if the weather turns foul.

 

Outstanding.