Rising gas prices affect everyone in Arizona. For far too long, consumers have experienced drastic spikes in gas prices while oil companies rake in record profits.

States do not control gas prices. But as Governors, we also understand that states - together - can send a very strong message to Congress, and that is precisely what we've done.  Earlier this week, I joined a total of 22 governors in a letter to Congress calling for a full investigation of the spike in gasoline prices.

The sad reality is that we hear the same old story at the same time every year. Just before Memorial Day, and the start of the summer driving season, prices jump. The excuse is often the change to the summer blend of fuel that is required in some Arizona counties. An added twist this year is for oil companies blaming refinery maintenance as a reason for higher prices.

Yet, the timing of the summer-blend switch is no surprise. Maintenance could have been scheduled before or after, but for whatever reason, the companies choose not to exercise that option.

Instead, oil companies rake in record profits each quarter without making capital investments in refineries that would address reliability issues.

It's time for answers, and Governors believe Congress is best positioned to conduct an inquiry that can find those answers.

As always, if you have any questions or comments, please contact my office at