California is taking aim at gas stations charging sky-high prices, with some pumps hitting over $8 a gallon.
The state’s petroleum market watchdog, part of the California Energy Commission, has launched an investigation to see if any retailers are engaging in illegal price gouging.
Officials are scrutinizing prices that appear out of step with the cost of crude oil and normal market trends. Stations flagged for unusually high pricing have already been contacted as part of the review, officials said.
The spike has put a spotlight on the Golden State’s already expensive fuel market.
California has long faced higher-than-average prices due to taxes, environmental regulations and limited refinery capacity. But the latest surge has some consumers wondering whether retailers are taking advantage of drivers.
The investigation is part of a broader effort to protect Californians from unfair pricing, especially during volatile fuel markets.
Authorities have not yet announced whether any penalties will result from the probe.