Gallego Urges Biden Administration to Act on Arizona’s Runaway Gas Prices
PHOENIX, AZ – Today, Rep. Ruben Gallego (AZ-03) urged President Biden and his administration to do everything in his authority to address the rising gas prices affecting Arizona families, businesses, and communities.
In a letter to the President, Gallego states, “I write today to express my deep concern over rising gasoline prices across Arizona. High prices at the pump are disproportionately impacting Arizona’s families, businesses, and communities.”
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), over the past month in Arizona the average gallon of Regular gasoline has increased from $4.17 a gallon to $4.69 a gallon. In Maricopa County, gas reached $5.02 a gallon. Additionally, supply issues have caused some gas stations to run out of Regular gasoline, forcing consumers to fill up with more expensive Mid-Grade or Premium Gasoline.
“Arizona families should not be forced to pay more than a dollar a gallon over the national average for gas,” said Rep. Gallego. “It’s even more outrageous that at some gas stations, there are no options left but expensive Premium gas. Our state shouldn’t be punished unfairly for the actions of a few major oil companies. We need the Administration to address these issues and lower costs.”
The letter notes several reasons for Arizona’s increase in gas prices. These factors include:
- A supply issue where Regular gasoline is unavailable at Arizona gas stations;
- Refineries in Texas and California performing required maintenance; and
- The transition to “summer” gasoline to prevent smog in the Valley.
Rep. Gallego’s letter requests President Biden to everything in his authority to address the gasoline issues affecting Arizonans.