The headline on page A1 of Oct. 5 states “Maine gasoline pumps found to be overcharging.”
The article quotes Department of Agriculture Commissioner Walt Whitcomb as saying, “Our gut reaction is there isn’t a pattern of intentional deceit.”
Since when have public officials relied on their guts to let them know when to take action against suspect gas station operators? Having a gut rumble is something that should cause an examination of eating and drinking habits, or a call to a physician, not setting public policy.
When an examination of the pumps shows a discrepancy, the books of the gas stations should be examined and compared, incoming invoices and sales records; and if discrepancies exist, action should be taken.
They do keep records. Don’t they?
Robert W, Vitolo
Waterville
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