The Econo Lodge in Egg Harbor Township has agreed to pay just over $64,500 to resolve the State’s allegations that the hotel engaged in over 500 instances of unlawful price gouging in the wake of Superstorm Sandy.

Amy Hotels, the owners of Econo Lodge on the Black Horse Pike in Egg Harbor Township, will pay $64,543. That includes consumer restitution, civil penalties, and reimbursement of the State’s attorneys’ fees and investigative costs. An additional $25,000 in penalties is suspended but will become payable if the business violates the terms of the settlement within one year.

The State alleges that Amy Hotels raised its room rates to various excessive amounts following Governor Christie's Superstorm Sandy state of emergency declaration. From October 27, 2012, through November 5, 2012, the hotel allegedly engaged in 545 instances of unlawful price gouging. The hotel allegedly increased its room rates by as much as 150 percent, or to $199.99 per night for a room that was normally priced at $79.99 per night.

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