Free cash is going to some California drivers in the form of gas rebates

A $50 million settlement over price gouging at the pump means some Californians are now eligible for a small cash refund.

In July, California’s attorney general announced a settlement with three gasoline trading companies that nine years ago allegedly collaborated to manipulate gas prices in violation of California antitrust laws, according to Atty’s office. General Rob Bonta.

A 2020 lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice alleged that the companies took advantage of market disruptions following the February 2015 explosion at the Exxon Mobil refinery in Torrance “to engage in a scheme to raise gas prices for their own profit.” officials said. As a result, California consumers paid more for gas.

The settlement does not include an admission of guilt by the commercial companies.

“Market manipulation and price gouging are illegal and unacceptable,” Bonta said, “especially in times of crisis when people are most vulnerable.

As part of the settlement, Vitol, SK Energy Americas and South Korea’s SK Trading International agreed to pay a total of $50 million to two settlement funds. Of this amount, $37.5 million will be distributed to consumers as compensation for violations of the Cartwright Act.

If you filled up your tank between February 20 and November 10, 2015 in Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Kern, Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and/or Imperial counties, you may qualify for the payment .

No information was made available on the amount each claimant could receive.

To qualify for the settlement payment, you must apply online or complete the form and mail it by January 8, 2025.

To complete the form, you must provide your name, address and driving license. The form will also ask you which counties you purchased gas from during the 10 months of 2015.