October 06, 2022

Representative Torres Asks Governor Newsom for Special Session on Gas Prices

POMONA, CA- Congresswoman Norma Torres (CA-35) wrote to Governor Newsom asking him to call a special session of the State Legislature to investigate and act on California's skyrocketing gas prices. With gas prices once again soaring, urgent legislative action is necessary.

"I urge you to consider calling a special legislative session to help address the dramatic increase in gas prices, which are unsustainable for the average Californian and families in the Inland Empire of Southern California," wrote Congresswoman Torres. "A special session would allow the legislature to thoroughly and immediately investigate the causes of the recent price jump; and to propose legislative solutions, including a potential suspension of the 54-cent gas tax."

The full text of the letter can be found here.

According to AAA, gas prices have jumped to an all-time high in Southern California. In the San Bernardino Metro Area, prices have jumped by more than $1.14 per gallon in the last 30 days, reaching an average of $6.35 per gallon. Similarly, in the Los Angeles area, gas prices have increased by more than $1.20 over the past month, for an average of $6.48 per gallon.

In Congress, Congresswoman Torres recently voted in favor of H.R. 7688, the Federal Price Gouging Prevention Act, which gives new powers to the Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys general to investigate and act against price gouging at the gas pump- whether through market manipulation or excessive price increases. More information on the bill can be found here.

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