Lawmakers ask for federal investigation on propane prices

The Missouri House is asking the U.S. Justice Department to investigate the high price of propane.

The resolution endorsed Thursday was adopted by a voice vote and now heads to the Senate where a similar measure was also passed this week.

Lawmakers began considering the measures after propane prices jumped over $5 per gallon in January. Propone associations say the high prices are caused by colder weather and higher-than-expected crop yields.

But Missouri legislators have accused the industry of price gouging by boosting exports and causing a shortage back home.

Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster is also investigating. Gov. Jay Nixon has announced an additional $15 million in aid for low-income propane customers to cope with the high prices.