Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has called on residents who purchased gasoline in Southern California during a specific period in 2015 to file claims for compensation under a settlement agreement. The settlement, amounting to $50 million, was reached with gas trading firms accused of manipulating gasoline prices.

"Market manipulation and price gouging are illegal and unacceptable, particularly during times of crisis when people are most vulnerable," stated Attorney General Bonta. "I am proud to deliver money back to Californians who were victims of gas price manipulation. As the People’s Attorney, I am committed to combating corporate greed and ensuring justice for the people of California."

The case involved allegations against Vitol, Inc., SK Energy Americas, Inc., and its parent company SK Trading International. These companies were accused of colluding to manipulate spot market prices for gasoline in the state. Residents from Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Kern, Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Imperial counties who bought gas between February 20 and November 10 in 2015 may be eligible for compensation.

This settlement follows another resolution from a private class action lawsuit filed at the federal level.

Eligible Californians can submit their claims online by visiting www.CalGasLitigation.com where they can also find detailed information about their rights and options related to this settlement.