Ark. gov. declares state of emergency for Ike (UALR Public Radio) - Arkansas Gov. Mike Beebe has declared a state of emergency because of gas supply disruptions caused by Hurricane Ike, which is bearing down on the Texas coast.

Beebe's office said Friday that he expected temporary increases in gas prices over the next few days because of the shutdown of some pipelines that supply Arkansas gas stations. Beebe said he made the declaration to help the attorney general's office pursue anyone who participates in price-gouging.

"We have dealt with emergencies before when severe weather has impacted fuel prices in Arkansas and throughout the region," Beebe said. "This situation is unique with the interruption of pipeline service, and we want to do everything we can to make sure that any price gouging that results can be dealt with swiftly and strongly by the Attorney General."

McDaniel said Friday his office has fielded a number of calls complaining about hikes in gas prices because of the hurricane bearing down on the Texas coast. He said his office will look into the claims.

An investigator with his office will have a cell phone over the weekend to receive any pictures documenting unfair price hikes. McDanile asked consumers to e-mail pictures to gas@arkansasag.gov or text-message them to 501-539-0969.


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