Attorney General James Warns New Yorkers About Price Gouging During Long Island Rail Road Strike

May 18, 2026

NEW YORK - New York Attorney General Letitia James today issued a consumer alert warning New Yorkers to beware of price gouging of transportation services amid the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) workers' strike. New York's price gouging laws prohibit businesses from unconscionably increasing prices on goods or services, including transportation, that are vital to consumers' health, safety, or welfare during market disruptions. Train service at all LIRR stations has shut down, forcing New Yorkers to rely on alternative means of transportation. Attorney General James is encouraging anyone who encounters excessively higher prices of rideshare services, car rentals, and parking to report it to the Office of the Attorney General (OAG).

"As New Yorkers face a complete shutdown of LIRR service, many are counting on rideshares, rental cars, and other services to help them commute," Attorney General James. "This strike is no excuse for companies to unfairly raise prices on New Yorkers. We will not tolerate price gouging, and I encourage everyone to remain vigilant and report illegal price hikes to my office."

New York's price gouging law covers New York state vendors, retailers, and suppliers, and includes essential goods and services that are necessary for the health, safety, and welfare of consumers or the general public. These goods and services include food, water, gasoline, hotel lodging, and transportation options.

When reporting price gouging to OAG, consumers should:

• Report the specific increased prices, dates, and places that they saw the increased prices; and
• Provide copies of their sales receipts and photos of the advertised prices, if available.

Price gouging violations can carry penalties of up to $25,000 per violation. New Yorkers should report potential concerns about price gouging to OAG by filing a complaint online or calling 800-771-7755.