Connecticut House Bill HB05887

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/21
• Refer: 1/28/21

Caption

An Act Creating Greater Transparency In Retail Gasoline Pricing.

Impact

If passed, HB 05887 would impose new requirements on gasoline retailers, potentially changing the way fuel prices are presented to consumers across the state. It aims to eliminate confusion regarding gasoline pricing by ensuring that consumers have access to detailed information about the fuel costs they’re encountering at the pump. Proponents of the bill argue that enhanced transparency could foster a more competitive market, possibly leading to lower prices and greater consumer satisfaction as individuals have clearer insights into pricing structures.

Summary

House Bill 05887, titled 'An Act Creating Greater Transparency In Retail Gasoline Pricing', focuses on enhancing consumer awareness regarding gasoline pricing. The primary goal of this bill is to amend the existing general statutes to require that retail gasoline prices displayed at the pump are detailed in a manner that clearly shows consumers the actual price they are paying as well as how those prices are calculated. This bill is driven by the desire to promote transparency in the market, enabling consumers to make informed decisions when purchasing gasoline.

Contention

Despite its intentions, the implementation of this bill may face scrutiny from various stakeholders. Critics might argue that the new requirements could impose additional burdens on small retailers, increasing their operational costs and complicating existing pricing strategies. Additionally, this bill may lead to pushback from gasoline suppliers who could view transparency measures as a threat to their pricing discretion. The discussions surrounding HB 05887 suggest a potential conflict between consumer advocacy for clearer pricing information and the concerns of retailers over administrative burdens that transparency can bring.