Reports: Alaska market conditions drive high fuel prices

From The Associated Press, Friday, February 19, 2010:

The attorney general and researchers at the University of Alaska Anchorage are attributing high gasoline and heating fuel costs in rural Alaska to market conditions.

Two independent investigations say small scale distribution over great distances in challenging locations appears to be the main culprit in rural-urban price disparities. The attorney found no illegal activity.

Republican Rep. Jay Ramras is one of several legislators looking at the issue. The Fairbanks Republican has held several hearings on the topic in his Judiciary Committee.