As a result of Hurricane Harvey, the nation’s largest oil refinery, in addition to many smaller refineries, have been shut down and it is possible Michigan drivers may see a slight spike in gas prices. In light of this, Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette issued a warning to gas stations against any attempt to take advantage of consumers by price gouging or price fixing.
This outage has potential to have affects outside the states affected by the storm and Schuette made it clear to gas station owners that taking advantage of this type of disaster would not be tolerated.
“Labor Day weekend is days away and that means an uptick in cars traveling roads. Combined with the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey means Michigan families may see an increase in prices at the pump,” said Schuette. “However, these circumstances do not constitute a free pass for gas stations to gouge consumers. We will not tolerate any unscrupulous behavior that violates Michigan law when it comes to gouging and price fixing.”
If consumers become aware of direct evidence concerning a conspiracy between companies, or have verifiable evidence of a retailer charging a price “grossly in excess of the price at which similar property or services are sold,” they are encouraged to contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at 1-877-765-8388 or file an online complaint at www.michigan.gov/ag.
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