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News from Rep. Stephanie Herseth
For Immediate Release
Contact: Russ Levsen, 202-226-4449

HERSETH RELEASES REPORT OUTLINING EFFECT OF HIGH GAS PRICES ON SOUTH DAKOTA FAMILIES

Price of Gas Increased Five Times Faster Than Inflation; Two-Car SD Family Pays $1,860 More for Gasoline in 2006 than in 2001

June 2, 2006, Washington, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Stephanie Herseth today released a study outlining the impact of high gasoline prices on South Dakota families over the last five years. The study, authored by the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Government Reform, details the steep increase in gasoline costs since 2001, and underscores the need to make ourselves energy independent. The study finds that:

· Average gasoline prices in South Dakota have increased four straight years, from an average of $1.81 in 2001 to $2.79 so far in 2006. This is a 54% increase, which is five times the rate of inflation over the same period.

· Increased gas costs require two-car families in South Dakota to pay an average of $1,860 more in 2006 than they did in 2001. The study further found that in 2006, South Dakotans will pay a total of $522 million more for gasoline than in 2001, or $43.5 million per month on average.

· In the Sioux Falls area, high gas prices will cost drivers an extra $51 million this year. In Rapid City, drivers pay an extra $34 million.

Herseth said, "The stark figures in this survey clearly demonstrate how the burden of high gas prices is only getting heavier for South Dakota families. A typical two-car family must find nearly $2000 more for fuel in 2006 than just five years ago. With the oil industry reporting record profits, it's easy to see who is getting stuck with the bill."

Herseth added that the study's results drive home the need to invest in a long-term strategy to achieve energy independence through renewable fuels. Earlier this week, Herseth began a statewide tour of gas stations that offer E-85, including stops in Aberdeen, Groton and Yankton to raise awareness about the benefits of homegrown, renewable fuels. Herseth added, "A meaningful commitment to renewable fuels would be win-win for South Dakota families. First, we would see some relief at the pump as prices stabilize. But secondly, our rural economy would benefit through the high-paying jobs created by a vibrant renewable fuels industry throughout the Heartland."

The study is attached in its entirety. (CLICK HERE)

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