The Justice Department on Friday urged state attorneys general to investigate whether unlawful conduct is keeping gasoline prices high even as crude oil prices fall.
In a letter obtained by POLITICO, DOJ urged the state attorneys general to “use all tools available” under state law to investigate and prosecute any misconduct that may be contributing to high prices at the pump.
“In short, companies and individuals who seek to unlawfully exploit our nation’s citizens will face federal investigation, civil liability, and criminal prosecution,” the Justice Department wrote.
Gas prices surged earlier this year after U.S.-Israel strikes against Iran raised concerns that the conflict could disrupt shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway that normally carries about 20 percent of the world’s oil.
