New Jersey Sues Gas Stations and Oil Companies

The state of New Jersey has sued Hess, Motiva Shell, and Sunoco as well as numerous gas stations. The suit accuses these companies of artificially inflating prices and changing gas prices more than the legal limit of once a day. The investigation began after consumers complained about steep and sudden increases in gas prices just before Labor Day. During the course of the investigation, it was discovered that these gas stations also allegedly charged consumers for more gas than was received, as well as charging consumers for premium gas but giving them regular gas instead. The lawsuits seek restitution for consumers who were overcharged. The maximum penalty that these companies can receive is a $10,000 fine for violating the Consumer Fraud Act.