Gasoline Prices and the State of Florida Overview

Overview

Floridians and citizens across America have long realized that gasoline is an important part of our everyday lives. It is also a vital part of Florida’s economy, fueling its largest component: tourism.

In early 2003 and again in early 2004, prices at the pump quickly rose to record levels. The Office of the Attorney General received numerous complaints from citizens prompting inquiries designed to understand the reasons for the dramatic hikes. We have heard from citizens, retailers, the Federal Trade Commission, even the oil companies themselves.

At this time, there does not appear to be any evidence that the price spikes are the result of activities that violate state antitrust laws. The Attorney General’s Office and federal agencies such as the Federal Trade Commission and the U.S. Department of Energy are continuing to monitor the situation.

Florida has a price gouging statute that can trigger an investigation once a state of emergency has been declared. Disasters that would prompt such a declaration have thankfully not occurred statewide.

The Attorney General’s Office cannot control all of the many factors that determine gasoline prices. The cost of crude oil along with federal, state and local taxes are prime examples of some of those factors. However, the Attorney General plays an important role in ensuring that prices are free of illegal manipulation.

The links on this page provide additional information about the factors determining prices, comparisons of Florida prices to other states, and the roles of the Attorney General and other agencies.