Sen. Jeff Bingaman (D-NM) and Sen. Bill Nelson (D-FL) have teamed to introduce legislation to allow the Federal government to prosecute those who overcharge for gasoline and diesel during a major disaster.

Currently, many states have laws banning such corrupt behavior, but no anti-price-gouging prohibition exists at the Federal level.  The Nelson-Bingaman bill (S. 1744) would establish a minimum standard in all states.  Nelson serves on the Commerce Committee and Bingaman is the ranking member of the Energy Committee.

Modeled in part after Florida's anti-price gouging law, the legislation would give Federal authorities, for the first time, power to prosecute people accused of charging excessively for motor fuels in a declared disaster area.  Those convicted could face one year in prison and/or a $500,000 fine.   The bill comes on the heels of other legislation filed by Nelson that would prevent huge unwarranted price increases on many other essential goods and services.

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Bill Wicker                                                 Dan McLaughlin
Democratic Communications Director           Communications Director
Senate Energy & Natural Resources             Sen. Bill Nelson (D-FL)
202/224-5243                                               202/224-5274