Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond is taking legal action against natural gas marketers in hopes of recovering billions of dollars for Oklahomans. Following the winter storms in 2021, which caused a spike in gas and oil prices, Drummond is determined to prevent a repeat scenario as severe winter weather approaches. He believes that filing a lawsuit will serve as a means to protect the state and its residents from exploitative practices.
Drummond stated that the lawsuit has the potential to recover several billion dollars owed to Oklahomans as a result of rate hikes that occurred after the ice storm in February 2021. The storm caused widespread damage, including downed trees, icy roads, accidents, and power outages lasting for days. Homeowners were already struggling with these challenges when the change in utility rates further exacerbated their financial burden.
The Attorney General wants to ensure that consumers in Oklahoma are aware of his commitment to their protection. His Consumer Protection Unit is actively monitoring natural gas marketing and pricing to identify any manipulation that could lead to increased costs for utility companies and, subsequently, for consumers. Drummond warned middlemen marketers against attempting to take advantage of Oklahoma, emphasizing that his team will swiftly respond to any dishonest behavior.
According to Drummond, such actions are not acceptable in Oklahoma, and he encouraged those seeking to engage in deceptive practices to go elsewhere. The Attorney General emphasized that Oklahoma honors its contracts and is determined to hold accountable those who violate them.
In summary, Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond is pursuing legal action against natural gas marketers to recover billions of dollars owed to Oklahomans following the 2021 winter storms. He aims to prevent further price hikes as the state prepares for severe winter weather. Drummond’s Consumer Protection Unit is actively monitoring gas marketing and pricing to safeguard consumers from manipulation.