Pryce Votes to Protect Measure Imposes Criminal and Civil Penalties for Price Gouging WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Deborah Pryce (R-Upper Arlington) voted in support of the Federal Energy Price Protection Act of 2006 (HR 5253), legislation that if enacted into law would create the first federal criminal penalties for price gouging for gasoline and other energy commodities. Pursuant to the bill’s passage in the House, Congresswoman Pryce released the following statement: “Americans must have confidence that energy prices are not being surreptitiously manipulated and that retailers or wholesalers are not engaging in anti-competitive practices,” said Pryce. “Today’s vote will ensure that consumers are getting a fair deal at the pump, and are not being victimized by price gouging or collusion.” “Like any commodity, gas prices are subject to market forces and the laws of supply and demand. This bill, however, ensures that they are not subject to profiteering and manipulation by unscrupulous retailers or wholesalers.” “Today’s vote is but the first in a series of common-sense remedies to aid American consumers who feel they are getting hosed at the pump. Spiking gas prices act as a tax on our economy and American families, and stifle economic growth and job creation. We will continue to find solutions to protect American families and jobs from the emasculating impact of energy costs.” The Federal Energy Price Protection Act prohibits price gouging in the market for gasoline, diesel fuel, crude oil, home heating oil and bio fuels. The bill will provide for strong civil enforcement by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the states’ attorneys general, in conjunction with criminal enforcement by the U.S. Attorney General and the Justice Department. Highlights of HR 5253:
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