Watch out for price gouging tied to 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit, AG warns

A sign posted on the side of a building hangs as work continues on the setup for the upcoming NFL Draft
A sign posted on the side of a building hangs as work continues on the setup for the upcoming NFL Draft near Campus Martius on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, in downtown Detroit. Photo credit © Ryan Garza / USA TODAY NETWORK

(WWJ) Expect to spend some cash, but don't get scammed.

As hundreds of thousands of people descend on Detroit for the 2024 NFL Draft next week, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reminding consumers to be aware of potential price gouging tied to the event.

In a news release Friday, the AG informed visitors and reminded residents that Michigan law prohibits retailers from charging prices that are "grossly in excess” of what others are charging for the same thing.

However, she said that a general rise in prices does not automatically equal price gouging — noting that hotels and parking structures will often adjust rates for high-demand events like the Draft.

Nessel encourages consumers to shop around and compare rates and other expenses in advance to secure the best rate.

“Fans should be able to enjoy the Draft without being nickel-and-dimed by excessively high prices,” Nessel said. “My office will be on the lookout for any business that tries to take advantage of attendees.”

Consumers who believe they have been charged a grossly excessive price are urged to file a complaint directly with the Consumer Protection Team.

Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Fill out an online complaint form at this link.

This comes as Detroit officials are stressing that fans should plan in advance for transportation to and from NFL Draft events. With parking in the downtown area certain to be extremely limited, the public is urged to take advantage of options include fun shuttles and park-and-ride Smart bus service. Learn more here.

For official NFL Draft event updates and information, fans should download the NFL One pass app, or go to VisitDetroit.com.

>> NFL Draft in Detroit: What to know about fan events, concerts, food and drinks and more

Featured Image Photo Credit: © Ryan Garza / USA TODAY NETWORK