By Illinois Public Radio
Champaign-Urbana, Ill. – An Illinois lawmaker is sponsoring legislation to fine gas stations $1,000 per violation, if the state can find evidence of price gouging.
Rep. Bill Black (R-Danville) says it's time for Illinois to keep a closer look on fluctuating prices. "While I understand supply and demand, and OPEC is tightening production, what I find odd is so many stations seem to be at the same price within 45 minutes of each other," Black said. "That seems to enhance my frustration."
Black asked Attorney General Lisa Madigan in August to investigate gas prices, but she said there was little she could do.
He says he hopes his legislation would encourage the Attorney General to be more aggressive.