For Immediate Release: December 23, 2021
Contact: Jerri Mares (505) 321-4372
Santa Fe, NM– Today, following his investigation and consumer advisory on increased cost and unavailability of propane gas, Attorney General Hector Balderas filed a lawsuit against Bob’s LP Gas, Inc. (“Bob’s Gas”) for failure to provide the propane gas they had contracted to deliver to vulnerable Northern New Mexicans as the winter weather sets in.
“It is unconscionable that a company is able to leave hundreds of New Mexicans without access to safe heat when they need it the most,” said Attorney General Balderas. “This issue is a matter of life and death.”
The lawsuit alleges that Bob’s Gas is refusing to refill propane tanks that consumers lease from the company, despite its obligation to do so. Bob’s Gas is leaving hundreds of New Mexicans without propane gas for safe heat during freezing temperatures. Without propane in colder temperatures, these New Mexicans are forced to resort to burning wood for heat, using dangerous gas grills or electric space heaters for warmth. Attorney General Balderas sought voluntary cooperation from Bob’s Gas and its owner, Bob Sivers, without success. In addition to the lawsuit, Attorney General Balderas is seeking an immediate injunction against Bob’s Gas to force the company to either provide propane to these individuals or to allow another company to temporarily fill consumers’ propane tanks. Attorney General Balderas is also seeking a complete client list to verify that Bob’s Gas is in compliance with the laws for the safety of New Mexican citizens.
The New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management issued a storm warning yesterday, encouraging Northern New Mexicans to prepare for heavy winds and cold temperatures. Consumers who are at risk of running out of propane because Bob’s Gas hasn’t filled their tank are urged to contact the Attorney General’s office at 1-844-255-9210 or file a complaint. A copy of the complaint is attached.