Pennsylvania Lawmakers Call for Probe Into Gas Price Hikes Amid Iran Conflict

Representatives seek investigation into potential price gouging by gas stations

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Two Pennsylvania state representatives, Joe Ciresi and Jim Haddock, are calling for an investigation by the state Attorney General into the rapid rise of gas prices across the commonwealth. The lawmakers claim that gas stations began raising prices "as soon as the first bomb struck in Iran," even though the stations had already purchased and paid for the fuel in their tanks. They are pushing for an independent probe to determine if any laws were broken and to consider new legislation addressing price gouging and consumer protection.

Why it matters

The ongoing conflict with Iran has led to significant volatility in global oil markets, which is directly impacting prices at the pump for Pennsylvania drivers. The representatives argue that the price hikes may constitute unlawful price gouging, which could further strain household budgets during a time of economic uncertainty.

The details

Representatives Ciresi and Haddock released a statement calling on Attorney General Dave Sunday, along with the Department of Agriculture and the Office of the Consumer Advocate, to investigate the rapid gas price increases. They claim the price hikes occurred even though gas stations had already purchased and paid for the fuel in their tanks. The lawmakers say they will push for new laws to address price gouging and improve consumer protections.

  • The price increases began as soon as the first bomb struck in Iran.
  • The national average gas price is currently $3.45 per gallon, up nearly 50 cents per gallon compared to one week prior.
  • In Pennsylvania, the average price is $3.57 per gallon, also around 50 cents higher per gallon than a week ago.

The players

Joe Ciresi

Pennsylvania State Representative from Montgomery County.

Jim Haddock

Pennsylvania State Representative from Lackawanna and Luzerne counties.

Dave Sunday

Pennsylvania Attorney General.

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What they’re saying

“We are calling on Attorney General Dave Sunday, along with the Department of Agriculture and the Office of the Consumer Advocate, to investigate these price hikes. In a time of such uncertainty, Pennsylvanians should be able to afford to go where they need to go.”

— Joe Ciresi and Jim Haddock, Pennsylvania State Representatives

What’s next

The lawmakers say they will be pushing for new laws that would address price gouging and consumer protection.

The takeaway

This case highlights the impact that global conflicts can have on local gas prices, and the potential need for stronger consumer protections and oversight to prevent unlawful price gouging during times of economic uncertainty.