Being located next to an airport's rental car return lot is not justification enough to overcharge customers by $2.00 a gallon of gas, says Michigan AG
A Michigan BP gas station situated near the Detroit Metro Airport finds itself in hot water for allegedly tacking on an extra $2.00 per gallon compared to neighboring stations. The state’s Attorney General has slapped them with a cease and desist order in response.
The notice, which was issued on Thursday, squarely accuses the station of engaging in price gouging practices. This action from the Attorney General’s office came about following two consumer complaints received in the last two months, as detailed in the document.
The investigation conducted by two Department Special Agents revealed that the gas station was advertising regular unleaded gas for $4.74 per gallon, as reported by the Detroit News. This marked a significant difference of up to $2.00 per gallon compared to the prices at other nearby gas stations.
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Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel cited concerns about price inflation and taking advantage of consumers as the primary reasons behind the letter. The gas station’s proximity to the Metro Detroit Airport, and the rental car lot, added to the concerns regarding potential exploitation of consumers.
“If you have additional information that might serve to justify your prices, we are very interested in receiving it,” the notice read. “Know, however, that your mere location would not be a satisfactory justification — even if that is (as one of the consumer complaints suggested) the explanation.”
The gas station has until January 8 to respond to the notice, pending a civil lawsuit or a formal investigation. The cease and desist notice said that overcharging drivers could be a violation of the Michigan Consumer Protection Act.
“It is my hope this gas station will take this notice seriously and no further action will be necessary,” said Nessel. “My office stands ready to investigate reports of businesses that attempt to take advantage of residents, especially during the holiday season.”
