(WWJ) Are you being ripped off at the pump? There's a one-stop website in Michigan for information about how and where to send your complaints.
As Michiganders prepare for the holiday season, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer joined with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and Attorney General's Office to highlight consumer protection resources available in the state, including a new website: www.michigan.gov/gasinfo.
The site lists relevant phone numbers and links for Michiganders who want to issue complaints about unfair gasoline pricing practices (aka price gauging), substandard fuel and related scams. Get all the info HERE.
This comes as AAA reports gas prices in Michigan are down 5 cents from last week, but still the highest in the month of December since 2013.
“As gas prices fluctuate both here and across the nation, it’s important travelers and residents can easily find information on how to report issues including price gouging or credit card skimmers,” said Whitmer, in a statement. “The new MDARD website puts all relevant information in one spot and ensures that Michiganders are saving money on the go. Michiganders know that gas stations should not have drastically different prices whether they’re across the street or down the road. We will continue to put Michiganders first and find ways to lower costs for families by empowering customers to report concerns and facing price gouging head on.”
Officials say Michigan does have a high compliance rate, with more than 95% of stations selling the correct quality and quantity of gas, thanks in part to the work of MDARD’s Weights and Measures inspectors and Motor Fuel Quality staff.
"One of MDARD's key goals is ensuring consumers are getting both the quality and quantity of the gas they're buying, and we appreciate those stations who continue to put customers first," said MDARD Director Gary McDowell. "Our Laboratory Division's Weights and Measures Program regulates the sale of motor fuel and prevents economic harm by looking for credit card skimmers and ensuring pumps are accurate. MDARD employees are committed to making sure Michiganders are protected, especially over the holidays.”
Attorney General Dana Nessel has a consumer alert that highlights how her department monitors the pump and can take action if warranted.
"While it's common for prices to fluctuate at the pump, my office is ready to investigate any complaints of potential price gouging or other unfair practices," said Nessel. "I encourage everyone to become familiar with my consumer alert for additional insight on our role for consumers."
As an example of the Department of Attorney General's efforts, a BP gas station on Ann Arbor Road in Plymouth was ordered to cease and desist from engaging in unlawful business practices in May.
Michiganders who have information regarding potential unfair gasoline pricing practices can file a gas price gouging complaint online HERE or call the AG's office at 877-765-8388.
