Arizona residents are feeling the pinch at the pump with gas prices skyrocketing, and Representative Ruben Gallego is demanding answers. In an effort to to quickly reduce the financial strain on Arizonans, Gallego has reached out to the 11 refineries responsible for the state's unique gasoline blend. With prices in Phoenix surging by as much as 50 cents per gallon, locals are now shelling out over $4 a gallon, prompting Gallego's inquiry.
"Across Phoenix, gas prices have risen by as much as 50 cents per gallon. This increase over the last month means Arizonans now pay more than $4 at the pump. According to industry leaders, this spike has been attributed to limited capacity in California refineries due to maintenance. However, for families in Arizona, this is an insufficient explanation that does nothing to help their budgets," Gallego writes in his letter to the refineries.
Particularly problematic for Arizona is the formulation of Cleaner Burning Gasoline (CBG), specifically designed to combat air pollution in the region. Yet, the distinctive nature of this fuel blend means it's in limited supply and sensitive to supply shocks which, in turn, cause further economic distress for consumers through heightened gas prices. In his letters, Gallego probed the refineries on issues ranging from current maintenance schedules to the expected full production capacities for the CBG blend.
One major concern revolves around the necessary transition to a different summer blend to combat the state's elevated temperatures. "Since we know formula changes are needed every spring and fall, what steps are you taking to mitigate potential issues with these transitions over the next year?" Gallego urged the companies to ensure adequate supplies so prices can stabilize. In a statement that highlights both urgency and frustration, Gallego pressed the refiners to partly shoulder the responsibility for the financial wellbeing of Arizona's residents and businesses, saying, "Arizona families and businesses should not have to pay significantly more at the pump than the rest of the country. I request your assistance in guaranteeing adequate supply to bring costs down for Arizonans."
Representative Gallego's commitment to addressing this issue is long-standing. He has actively engaged in efforts to alleviate the problem, previously calling on the EPA to cooperate with Arizona officials in granting waivers to manage supply challenges. Last April, the Congressman called upon President Biden to exert all efforts within his authority to tackle the rising fuel costs burdening Arizona families and businesses. As residents wait for a respite, Gallego's relentless pursuit for transparency and relief from refineries continues to press forward. The outcome of these appeals could play a crucial role in shaping the financial realities for numerous Arizona households.
