For Immediate Release:
Wednesday, May 23, 2007

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Dan Boren voted today in support of the Federal Price Gouging Prevention Act to investigate and punish those who artificially inflate the price of gasoline.  The bill sets criminal penalties for price gouging and permits states to investigate wholesalers or retailers who engage in such practices. 

 

“Congress doesn’t set prices at the pump, but we can take action to ensure consumers are being treated fairly,” Boren said.  “There are long term options available to us, like increasing domestic production capacity and shifting more focus to alternative fuel sources, but providing stronger consumer protections is just as important for relief to Oklahoma families and small businesses as we enter the summer driving season.”

 

In the face of record prices at the pump, Congress has begun a series of hearings to address rising gas prices – focusing on getting to the causes and solutions.  This piece of legislation is one in a series of measures Congress is expected to consider this summer to bring relief to consumers and small businesses. 

 

“Government, industry and private citizens all have to work together to stabilize this uncertain energy market,” Boren said.  “In Oklahoma we drive long distances to work and many people are on fixed incomes.  We cannot sustain these prices much longer.”

 

Boren serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and its Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources, which is responsible for energy rights on our public lands.  He continues to support measures in Congress that provide the most domestic energy at the lowest cost possible.

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