NORTH CAROLINA -- The state's price gouging laws are now in effect.

• Hurricane Florence is expected to make landfall between Thursday night and Friday morning. 
• Report price gouging here or call 1-877-5NO-SCAM.
• RELATED: Gov. Cooper on Hurricane Florence: 'We are bracing for a hard hit; get ready now'

It is against the law to charge excessive amounts during a state of emergency, which was declared by the governor Friday.

The statute will remain in effect until the State of Emergency is lifted.

The Attorney General’s office can order refunds for consumers who are impacted by gouging and civil penalties up to $5,000 can be enacted for violations.

According to the N.C. Department of Justice, thousands of dollars have been given in refunds and penalties to violators.

Anyone who sees price gouging is urged to call 1-877-5NO-SCAM.

You can also fill out a complaint here at the NC DOJ’s website.