Released: May 24, 2007

House passes gasoline gouging bill

Source: Richard Simon, Los Angeles Times (Free Registration)

Congress is desperate to show it feels your pain at the pump. The House today voted, 284-141, to pass a bill that would make gasoline price gouging a federal offense.

In the Senate, Democratic leaders were scrambling to introduce a new energy bill, the first since they took control of Congress. A committee also held a hearing on whether oil industry mergers had contributed to higher fuel prices.

And the day before, members of both parties ignored a presidential veto threat and approved legislation that would subject the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries to price-fixing lawsuits.

Record high gasoline prices have drivers grumbling nationwide. Members of Congress have particular cause for alarm as they prepare to recess for a week for Memorial Day, the traditional start of the summer driving season.

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