No Fuel Shortage Says AAA

    HOUSTON--Sept. 27, 2001--AAA and the U.S. Energy Department are urging Americans to act responsibly and not overreact at the gas pumps as the United States launches war against terrorism.
    During a joint news conference this afternoon, the Energy Department and AAA announced that fuel supplies are plentiful.
    Both agencies confirmed that immediately following the September 11th terrorist attacks on the United States, motorists in various cities and small towns reacted to the events by forming lines at gas stations which threatened to drain local fuel supplies. Some gas station owners reacted by quickly posting prices of $3 or more a gallon, which helped fuel public fears.
    Currently, the national daily average for regular self-serve gasoline is $1.49 -- 8 cents less than last year's average of $1.57.
    Texans are paying an average of ten cents less per gallon than the national average. A gallon of regular self-serve is $1.39. Last year, the statewide average was $1.48.
    In light of yesterday's decision by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to keep oil production stable, gasoline supplies are expected to remain readily available.
    "Due to current supply levels and OPEC's decision, there is no reason to top-off tanks, to panic-buy or to hoard fuel," said Rose Rougeau, public affairs specialist for AAA Texas. "In fact, this type of behavior is unnecessary and potentially dangerous," she added.
    "The nation's slowing economy coupled with OPEC's decision could result in lower prices at the pumps, which will make auto travel and vacationing more affordable," according to Rougeau.

    AAA Texas, an affiliate of the American Automobile Association, has been serving Texans since 1902. AAA Texas offers its members a full service travel agency, auto-related and financial services, as well as public safety programs and legislative advocacy.