LETTERS: KEEP GAS COMPETITION

To the editor:

The Missouri Senate will very soon be voting on House Bill 849. This bill is purported to be a way to prevent predatory pricing of petroleum products.

This bill is a smoke screen to prevent real independent brands from using vigorous price competition in their marketing of gasoline and other petroleum products.

Whether or not you purchase "major" or "independent" brand products, the vigorous price competition of the independent brands results in everyone getting better values on their gasoline purchases.

In the last few weeks some unusual circumstances have resulted in steep increases in gasoline prices. These prices should return to normal when the unusual circumstances are over. However, if HB 849 is passed by the Missouri Senate, Missouri will never again enjoy some of the lowest prices in the nation, because vigorous price competition will be illegal.

I urge all Missouri citizens to contact their senator to ask him to vote against HB 849 unless it is amended considerably. There are fewer than 500 people in the special-interest group that is pushing the bill. They would all benefit if it passes, but you, the consumer, would always pay more for your gasoline.

J.E. HOCKER

Hocker Oil Co.

Salem