Letter to Hon. Joe Biden, President of the United States - Kelly to Biden: "Arizonans need relief" from Rising Gas Prices
Letter
Dear Mr. President:
I am writing to express concern over rising gasoline prices in the State of Arizona. I
request a status update on actions the administration is taking to ensure that Arizonans have
access to a reliable and affordable supply of retail gasoline.
As of today, the average price of regular unleaded gasoline in Arizona is $3.71 per
gallon, an amount that is higher than the current national average. Prices are even more
expensive in many localities in our state.
Arizonans need relief from elevated gas prices that have persisted throughout 2021. Our
state is currently ranked by the American Automobile Association (AAA) as one of the most
expensive markets in gas prices. The pain felt at the pump is an economic hardship for those
who commute to work and drive their children to school on a daily basis. Costly fuel prices are
also affecting our delivery services sector and the motorized outdoor recreation industry.
Arizona normally sees a reduction in price of gasoline around November when a cleanerburning winter blend of gasoline is sold in our state. In recent years, however, this price
difference has not materialized as it has in the past due in part to supply constraints from
refineries located in California and Texas, where Arizona receives most of its gasoline via
pipeline. These constraints can be sourced to a variety of factors, including delays at marine
terminals in California and the effects of extreme winter weather as was the case in Texas this
February.
I understand that the Administration is calling for greater global competition in crude oil
production as the world returns to pre-pandemic levels. Arizona needs a clear explanation on
what the administration is doing domestically to address gasoline prices in our state right
now. This includes considering increasing domestic oil and gas production, safeguarding our
energy infrastructure from disruptions in the supply chain, preventing cyber-attacks on refineries
and pipelines, and preparing for and mitigating the effects of extreme weather events. The
administration must also demonstrate that it is working with state and regional regulators to
monitor and investigate potential cases of price gouging and market manipulation.
Thank you for your attention to my request.
Sincerely
Source