April 16, 2008

LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm and Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) Director Don Koivisto today outlined continued efforts to protect consumers' pocket books at the pump as unleaded gas prices climb toward the $4 mark.

"To further protect Michigan citizens, the Department of Agriculture has re-directed employees in order to step up the state's inspection efforts," Granholm said. "Given the rising cost of fuel, Michigan's motor fuels inspectors will continue to be on the front line ensuring that consumers are getting every penny's worth at the pump."

In addition, Granholm recognized the need to provide the same protection to the trucking industry.

"The majority of the goods we purchase are brought to us by dedicated truck drivers who must purchase large quantities of diesel fuel at each fill-up," Granholm said. "With record high prices, ensuring accuracy at the diesel pump provides a direct benefit to every consumer."

Recently, the governor provided testimony before the congressional Oversight and Investigations sub-committee and asked members to repeal unnecessary federal tax subsidies and ensure price competition of unbranded gasoline. Additionally, Granholm, along with 20 other state governors, called on President Bush to urge oil companies to invest profits in fixing current refinery capacity issues.

"MDA takes its consumer protection role very seriously, and the state's motor fuels quality inspectors are on the front lines every day protecting consumers at the pump," Koivisto said.

While most gas station operators attempt to deliver the proper quality and quantity of fuel, motorists can help increase their protection by making sure that the price display on the pump is set to zero before the pump starts and by verifying that the sign on the roadway matches the price on the pump before fueling. In addition, consumers should always request a receipt as a record of their purchase.

Consumers can also improve their fuel economy by controlling the factors that burn more fuel. Following these steps will improve gas mileage, extend vehicle life, and make travel safer:

• Keep your engine tuned, maintain tires at the correct pressure, change the air filter regularly, and use energy-saving motor oil.
• Avoid aggressive driving such as rapid acceleration and braking. It can lower fuel economy up to 33 percent on the highway and five percent around town. This can cost as much as $0.49 per gallon.
• Watch your speed - high speed creates more wind resistance. Every five mph driven over 60 mph can cost an additional $0.10 per gallon.
• Be aware that running electric accessories like an air conditioner can also reduce fuel economy by five to 25 percent.

Anyone who suspects problems at the pump is encouraged to call MDA's 24-hour hotline for reporting complaints: 1-800-MDA-FUEL
(1-800-632-3835).