Mark Kirk Looks To Lower Gas Prices

By aaroncynic in News on Apr 20, 2011 1:30PM

With gas prices above $4 a gallon in Illinois, one of the highest prices per gallon in the nation, pump prices are becoming a political talking point. Sen. Mark Kirk proposed a few ideas Monday that quickly granting offshore drilling permits, permanent renewable energy credits and loosening federal regulation would lower prices. He also suggested the conflict in Libya played a role.

The Associated Press and WBEZ report Kirk argues that federal regulations created “small gasoline monopolies” and supports legislation to correct the issue. He also suggested exploring the possibility of using natural gas from shale deposits in the Illinois Basin, saying “we undervalue Illinois' energy resources.” Kirk was not able to give a timeline or any specifics as to how his proposed plans would effect gasoline prices.