Bronson wants Washington to investigate fuel prices

Friday, May 23, 2008
Tampa Bay Business Journal

State officials are calling on Congress and the Bush Administration to launch a thorough investigation into the large fuel price increases they say are threatening both the state and federal economy as well as national security.

Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles H. Bronson is asking Congress to resist efforts to slow down the production of ethanol and bio-diesel because alternative fuel production is the "most effective option in assuring that fuel prices moderate and that future energy costs are affordable," a release from the state said.

Bronson wants the Bush Administration to investigate all aspects of the oil business, including production, trading by investors and speculators, and even the marketing and sale of fuel. He said that his department is being "bombarded" with calls from consumers over the rise in fuel prices, as well as the cost to cool homes, buy airline tickets and even purchase fertilizer.

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