Price-gouging law in effect as Dorian approaches.

Pay attention to the price you pay at the gas pump as Hurricane Dorian approaches South Carolina. The state's price-gouging law is in effect during the state of emergency declared by Gov. Henry McMaster.

The state law prohibits "unconscionable prices during times of disaster," according to the S.C. attorney general's office. The law remains in effect until the state of emergency expires or is terminated. Items covered include gas, bottled water, food or hotel rooms.

Business owners who are found guilty of taking advantage of consumers during a disaster are charged with a misdemeanor offense and face a fine of $1,000 and/or 30 days in jail.

The attorney general's office, which investigates claims of price gouging, said normal fluctuations in price are to be expected because of supply and demand and are not price gouging. But excessive, unreasonable prices charged with the intent to take advantage of consumers in crisis can be investigated.

"We can expect normal price increases, but we may see...