Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Bizzarro introduces legislation to prohibit gas price gouging

Bizzarro introduces legislation to prohibit gas price gouging

Bill would prevent same-day increases and hold oil companies accountable

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    April 14, 2026 | 3:14 PM

HARRISBURG, April 14 – Pennsylvanians are feeling pain at the pump as the price of a barrel of oil continues to increase and the war in Iran rages on. State Rep. Ryan Bizzarro (D-Erie) wants to help provide relief by introducing a bill to stop companies from gas price gouging.

“Too many oil companies are participating in price gouging and exploiting instability in the Middle East, and it’s having a real impact here at home. While their profits grow year after year, Pennsylvanians are feeling the pinch on their wallets. These are unconscionable practices that need to be reined in,” Bizzarro said. “At a time of global instability, we cannot allow sudden, unchecked price hikes at the pump to hit drivers without warning.”

The Trump administration bombed its seventh country, Iran, on Feb. 28, and gasoline prices skyrocketed with their largest monthly jump in six decades. Today, the average current price for a gallon of gas in Pennsylvania is $4.15, up 47 cents from a month ago and 80 cents from a year ago. In Erie County, average prices there currently range from $4.29 to $4.39.

Bizzarro’s bill would prevent price increases within 24 hours of a prior increase, outlaw increases during emergencies, and empower the Attorney General to investigate and prosecute instances of gas price gouging. Multiple other states have passed similar laws that prevent same-day gas price increases and target companies who implement unfair price gouging practices.

“Pennsylvanians are already stretched thin trying to afford groceries, rent, and necessities, and now rising gas prices driven by the war in Iran are making it even harder to get by. When fuel costs spike, it drives up the cost of everything, putting more pressure on people who are already struggling,” Bizzarro said. “Putting guardrails in place that can help slow or limit increases can provide real, immediate relief and help families pay for everyday expenses.”

House Bill 2383 was officially introduced Tuesday and already has 16 co-sponsors.  It will be referred to a committee for further consideration.