California Drivers' Gas Settlement Includes Exxon Explosion

California drivers who purchased gasoline between February 20 and November 10, 2015, may be eligible for compensation from a $50 million settlement following allegations that Vitol Inc. and SK Energy Americas Inc. manipulated gas prices after an explosion at an Exxon Mobil refinery in 2015. The settlement, announced by Attorney General Rob Bonta, resolves these antitrust claims without any admission of fault by the companies involved. $37.5 million of the total settlement will be distributed to consumers in affected counties, including Los Angeles and San Diego, as compensation for price-gouging. Claims must be filed by January 8, 2025, and require submission of personal details like name and driver's license. Bonta emphasized the importance of combating corporate greed and ensuring justice for Californians during vulnerable times.