Department of Energy Audits of Retail Gasoline Station Prices in Chicago Area

A review was made of the Department of Energy's (DOE) efforts to audit the gasoline prices of retail stations in the Chicago area. The DOE Office of Enforcement in the Economic Regulatory Administration (ERA) audits gasoline retailers based on complaints or other evidence of violations. DOE regulations provide for rollback of prices, recovery of overcharges, and levying of fines against retailers who violate gasoline pricing regulations. Consent or interim orders brought against violators can provide for a refund of overcharges, with consent orders also providing for a fine.