U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge (D-Lillington) will visit gas stations around the Second Congressional District this week to discuss legislation he has proposed to prevent manipulation and excessive speculation in energy markets. 

The House Agriculture Committee will hold hearings on the issue the week of July 7.

The CFTC is currently investigating whether market manipulation is causing the recent dramatic increase in energy prices.  However, the CFTC is understaffed.  Etheridge’s bill would provide the CFTC with more resources and staff.  It would also give the CFTC greater authority over trading in overseas futures markets and would require more transparency from investors.

His scheduled stops include:

Tuesday, July 1, 10 a.m.
Kangaroo Express, 2062 Horner Blvd, Sanford

Tuesday, July 1, 2 p.m.
Kangaroo Express, 41 E. Cornelius Harnett Blvd, Lillington

Wednesday, July 2, 11 a.m.
TR Lee Gas Station, 400 W. Main St., Clayton

Wednesday, July 2, 3 p.m.
Stancil Oil Co., 1003 S. Pollock St., Selma, NC

Thursday, July 3, 10 a.m.
Dunn’s Gas and Grocery, 209 E. Wellons St., Four Oaks