They’ve got to be kidding

But they weren’t. Some of my students last night told me that lines at local gas stations were long and that prices had topped $5 in some places in Atlanta. I was incredulous, of course, as I am with most things students tell me.

From 11Alive.com

But, it appears to be true. Some gas stations raised prices, and rumors were spreading via email in Atlanta that Katrina would make gas scarce. So, everyone rushed to fill up their SUVs so that they could commute at least two more days between their suburb and central Atlanta.

In response, the Governor issued an executive order to implement price gouging statutes.

According to the announcement:

“We will not tolerate the exploitation of Georgia consumers as we recover from the effects of Hurricane Katrina,” said Governor Sonny Perdue. “Violators of this price gouging statute will be punished to the fullest extent possible.”

Citizens are asked to report any suspected incidences of price gouging to the Georgia Office of Consumer Affairs at (404) 651-8600 or (800) 869-1123. Any violators of Georgia’s price gouging statute will be punished to the fullest extent of the law.

The gas pumps in my neighborhood didn’t have this problem–maybe because fewer of my neighbors have access to the internet.