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Call 4 Action: Are You Getting What You Pay For At The Pump?

POSTED: 4:47 pm EST March 8, 2007
UPDATED: 5:03 pm EST March 8, 2007

Do you know if you're getting what you pay for at the gas station?

Some state leaders and consumer advocates said there is no way to know for sure in Pennsylvania, and they're trying to change that.

No matter what gas station you stop at in this state, the only thing that ensures you're getting your money's worth is trust.

Of the 14 million gallons of gas pumped each day in Pennsylvania, not a single drop is tested for quality.

"Gas prices are high," said Rep. Joseph Markosek. "From what we hear, they may even go much higher. Now, more than ever, we must stand up for the consumer."

Pennsylvania is one of only four states that does not inspect gas, meaning there's no way to tell if it's watered down, full of sediment or lacking octane.

Citing several complaints in the area, local state leaders announced a new bill to prevent bad gas from hitting the market.

The bill would require random testing, more detailed record keeping by retailers, distributors and producers and fines for noncompliance.

So far, the bill has the backing of the American Automobile Association and consumer advocate Mary Bach.

Bach helped reveal that the state does not have enough inspectors to make sure all gas pumps are giving the full amount consumers pay for.

"Certainly Weights and Measures needs to do the job they are empowered and charged to do by law, but in fact, if they don't have enough personnel, it is impossible for them to cover," said Bach.

Gov. Ed Rendell recently promised to hire 22 more inspectors.

"If you look at it that way, there's never enough money to do all of the things we always want to do in state government, but I think this is making a big stride," said Markosek.

The state is hoping the public will also act as its eyes and ears of enforcement. They're encouraging anyone who sees anything unusual at the pump to call their hot line at 877-TEST-007.


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