Lansing
, MI - A BP gas station located near the Detroit Metropolitan Airport in Romulus has been told to cease and desist from engaging in unlawful business practices, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced Friday, December 22, 2023.
In October and November, the Department received consumer complaints reporting that this particular BP station, located at 9201 Middlebelt Rd. Romulus, MI, was charging $1.50 or more per gallon, compared to most nearby competitors.
A Special Agent from the Department visited the area twice this past week to investigate the claims and found the gas station listed regular unleaded gas for $4.74 per gallon. Those prices were as much as $2.00 higher per gallon than other area stations.
As written in the notice of intended action against the gas station, the Department is concerned the prices "are taking advantage” of the station’s location, resulting in probable cause to believe the station is in violation of the Michigan Consumer Protection Act, which makes it unlawful to charge a price that is grossly in excess of the price at which similar property or services are sold.
The gas station has until January 8, 2024, to respond to the notice. Possible action includes a civil lawsuit or formal investigation.
“It is my hope this gas station will take this notice seriously and no further action will be necessary,” said Nessel. “My office stands ready to investigate reports of businesses that attempt to take advantage of residents, especially during the holiday season.”
A library of consumer alerts created by the Department of Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team is available online and organized by a number of categories. Consumers are encouraged to place complaints directly with the Consumer Protection Team.
Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form