Washington State is joining in with a chicken lawsuit over price gouging. On July 8, 2024, the office of Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced that it had officially closed a sweeping lawsuit against a laundry list of chicken companies, including big names like Pilgrim’s Pride, Tyson, Perdue, and Foster Farms, that will be instantly familiar to anyone who buys chicken.
Price gouging can have a particularly severe impact on vulnerable populations. Many Washington State residents have felt the impact of price gouging. While price gouging affects all shoppers, it has a huge impact on low-income families, the elderly, and those with disabilities. As wages go up, grocery store prices tend to rise as well. It’s a vicious cycle that is hard to break out of.
How Does Price Gouging Affect Different Shoppers?
Low-Income Families
Financial Strain: Low-income families typically have less disposable income and often live paycheck to paycheck. When prices for essential goods and services—such as food, gas, or medications—rise dramatically due to price gouging, these families may struggle to afford basic necessities.