Connecticut Attorney General's Office
Press Release
Blumenthal, Himes Discuss Federal Legislation, Issue Consumer Warnings To Holiday Travelers Before They Pay At The Pump
July 6, 2009
Blumenthal issued the consumer advisory at a press conference today with U.S. Rep. Jim Himes who announced federal legislation, the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES), that will reform America's energy policy and reduce dependence on foreign oil.
Blumenthal said, "Unfair prices and other pitfalls at the pump can be avoided by consumers who proactively shop around and protectively check the math. Consumers can save dollars and help stop fraud by checking posted prices against rates actually charged, making sure the price dial is initially set at zero, shopping competitively, and other common steps.
"Cash discounts now widely offered -- which I fought hard to achieve -- can save countless dollars. Shopping around -- sometimes finding vast price differences only blocks away -- can also cut costs. Vigilance is key to avoid being misled at the pumps or mistakenly overcharged. Consumers should carefully observe the posted prices and do the math -- making sure that they are charged properly. My mantra: Trust, but verify. Save receipts and compare them to credit card statements."
Congressman Himes said, "Summer is seeming more and more like Ground Hog Day. Every year, we get in our cars to go on vacation or drive to the beach, only to find that gas prices are once again through the roof. We argue day in and day out about oil companies, refineries and speculators, but one thing never changes: the pain people feel at the pump. Our reformed energy policy will create new energy jobs and save consumers at the pump."
Offering specific warnings and tips, Blumenthal recommended that consumers:
- take advantage of cash discounts when possible;
- observe prices along consumers' commutes so they can plan fill ups at the most cost-friendly retailers. Sometimes gas stations that are mere blocks apart are priced vastly different;
- ensure that the prices posted street-side match the prices at the pump, and report any discrepancies;
- ensure the pump dial resets to all zeros before the consumer begins filling, and verify that the price per gallon on the pump remains constant throughout the filling process to avoid fraud;
- do the math. When done filling, make sure the price computes;
- always get a receipt for proof of purchase to ensure that the price paid at the pump corresponds to the credit card statement.
Consumers can also conserve fuel by inflating tires to the recommended tire pressure, ensure that their vehicles are properly maintained, obey speed limits, and also fill up tanks during cooler times during the day because gasoline and other fuels expand when heated.
To report possible fraud at the gasoline pumps, contact Blumenthal's office at 860-808-5400, or email complaints to attorney.general@po.state.ct.us.
For more information about the federal legislation, contact Congressman Himes at 202-225-5541 or visit himes.house.gov.