Oil Companies Accused Of Colluding To Keep California Gas Prices High

As California's gas prices reach record highs and continue to increase due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a long-standing class-action lawsuit against major oil companies is finally making progress.

According to the San Diego-Union Tribune's Jeff McDonald, an Escondido gas retailer is the lead plaintiff in the suit and accuses some of the most powerful oil companies of colluding to keep gas prices in the state artificially high.

"The complaint, which dates to 2015 and finally had its day in U.S. District Court in San Diego on Wednesday, names entities owned by BP, Chevron, Shell Oil, ExxonMobil, Phillips 66, Alon USA and Tesoro as defendants," writes McDonald.

Over 50 attorneys from across the U.S. are litigating the case to prove that these oil companies are the ones responsible for California's gas prices being so much higher than other states.

The plaintiffs allege oil company executives illegally conspired to keep prices high, especially during seasonal changes in fuel blends required in California in order to reduce smog. However, the companies dispute the allegations.

McDonald told KPBS a ruling could be coming as soon as this week. To read his full report on the case, click here.