New York State Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. (I, D, WF-Sag Harbor) today informs drivers of a new effort to help protect consumers from potential unfair gas station practices and gas price rises. The State is also conducting outreach with localities to inspect gas stations to ensure fair practices.

According to the Governor’s directives, the New York State Department of State and the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets to work together to ensure consumers are protected against potential unfair practices at gasoline pumps as fuel costs rise across the nation. In response, the Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection has launched a toll-free hotline and website for New Yorkers to report suspected price gouging at gas stations.

“Residents on the East End have been the victim of zone pricing and price gouging for years. For so long, I stood alone calling for corrective action. I am relieved to see that my efforts have not gone unnoticed.”

Assemblyman Thiele has been an active voice, fighting for relief from high gas prices on the East End. Since the summer of 2011, Thiele has been conducting periodic gasoline surveys of the South Fork and providing said findings the New York State Attorney General. Thiele has also re-introduced his legislation (A.2290/S.2124) to strengthen New York’s law on zone pricing of gasoline.

New Yorkers can now report sudden and unexpected increases in retail gas prices by calling the gas pricing hotline at (800) 214-4372.

In addition, the Division of Consumer Protection has also created an online consumer complaint form, where New Yorkers can report suspected price gouging or concerns about improper delivery of quantity. In addition, the website includes tips to help consumers save money at the gas pump. Consumers who wish to file a complaint can visit: http://www.dos.ny.gov/consumerprotection/consumer_resources/gas_gouging.html.

Under the Governor’s direction, using a combination of state and local officials, the Department of Agriculture and Markets’ Bureau of Weights and Measures will work with municipalities to inspect gas stations across the state to assure measurement accuracy, promote a fair and equitable marketplace, and ensure the quality of petroleum-based products. The Bureau will also be contacting local Weights and Measures officials to make them aware of the new website and hotline.