Tennessee officials are investigating reports of price gouging by gas retailers.
Following Hurricanes Gustav and Ike gas prices soared to an average of $4.11/gallon in Tennessee, with Knoxville recording the highest price in the country at $4.65/gallon. In Nashville the price was $4.09/gallon.
More than 500 consumer complaints flooded the state’s Consumer Affairs Division over the weekend and calls continued to come in yesterday.
State Attorney General Bob Cooper said investigators are anaylzing whether the spike is due to price gouging or the normal disruption of service that follows severe weather. Cooper added, “There is a difference between profits and profiteering.”
Meanwhile, Governor Phil Bredesen is asking consumers to use gasoline conservatively until the gas supply industry recovers.
Consumers who suspect price gouging can file a complaint online or by calling 1-800-342-8385.
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