Tom Allen outlines energy strategy

PORTLAND – U.S. Rep. Tom Allen is drawing attention to his strategy to provide relief from soaring energy prices.

Allen, a Maine Democrat, stood outside a Portland gas station Monday to outline his plan to bring consumers relief from the high price of oil.

Allen said two pieces of federal legislation he co-sponsored – one to punish price gougers, the other to give more oversight over energy commodities trading – have passed in the House of Representatives but still need Senate approval.

He also said he has reintroduced a bill that would create tax benefits for small businesses to help offset spiking energy prices.

Allen said gasoline and oil prices have risen more than 90 cents a gallon in the past year.