JEFFERSON CITY — Senator David Sater, R-Cassville, and other Senators are calling for an investigation into recent extreme price increases for propane gas.

"Many homeowners, farmers, and small business owners in southwest Missouri depend on propane gas to heat their homes and run their businesses,” said Sen. Sater. “We need to find out why the price has spiked recently and what can be done to give Missourians relief from this price-gouging.”

The wholesale price of propane climbed $1.25 in less than 24 hours last week and, in Branson, prices have skyrocketed from around $2 to over $6 a gallon. A number of factors are contributing to the price increase but it appears that poor management by the industry has contributed most to the price increase.  Between September and October of 2013, exports of propane from the United States rose by 73,000 barrels a day, according the U.S. Energy Information Administration. With so much of our supply dedicated to foreign exports, it is not surprising that domestic supplies could not keep pace with demand. With an already dangerously cold winter and colder temperatures on the way again this week, it is deeply troubling that manufacturers are taking advantage of the situation and creating an artificial shortage to drive up prices.

Senator Mike Parson, R-Bolivar, and Sen. Tom Dempsey, R-St. Charles, have been leaders on this issue, calling for an investigation by the Missouri Attorney General’s office.   

“I join my colleagues in calling on the Attorney General’s office to investigate why the people of Missouri are being forced into this situation and to take every necessary step in holding those responsible accountable,” said Sen. Sater. “We know this problem is coming from manufacturers and not local sellers. After many years of above average production, there is no reason we should have a shortage and consumers paying over $6 a gallon for propane.”