House Passes Bill Authorizing Antitrust Suits Against OPEC
Client Alert | 1 min read | 05.22.08
On May 20, 2008, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Gas Price Relief for Consumers Act of 2008, a bill that would allow the Department of Justice to sue members of OPEC for violations of U.S. antitrust laws. The bill also establishes an antitrust task force within the Department of Justice to monitor and investigate anti-competitive behavior in the oil industry. The bill, which passed the House by a vote of 324 to 84, adds a new section to Sherman Act explicitly prohibiting a foreign state, or its agency or instrumentality, from acting collectively or in combination with another foreign state to limit the production or distribution of oil, set or maintain the price of oil or "otherwise take any action in restraint of trade for oil, natural gas, or any petroleum product." In addition, the bill specifically authorizes the Department of Justice to bring suit against foreign states for collusion on oil supply and prices, and suspends the application of sovereign immunity and the act of state doctrine in any action brought by DOJ under the bill. Although previous versions of the bill have failed to pass in recent years, the dramatic rise in gas prices in recent months appears to have motivated the House to pass this year's version. The Senate has yet to vote on the bill. President Bush has already stated that he plans to veto the bill.
Insights
Client Alert | 5 min read | 10.22.25
Sixth Circuit Reaffirms Privilege Protections During Internal Investigations
On October 3, 2025, the Sixth Circuit reaffirmed that the attorney-client privilege and the work-product doctrine protections apply to materials created during attorney-led internal investigations. In re FirstEnergy Corp., No. 24-3654 (6th Cir. Oct. 3, 2025).
Client Alert | 4 min read | 10.21.25
Pivot Point for 340B: HRSA Rebate Model Pilot Program Approaches Launch
Client Alert | 5 min read | 10.20.25
What’s new for Belgian Construction Contracts under the New Book 7 of the Civil Code
Client Alert | 3 min read | 10.17.25
California Enacts New Requirements and Restrictions for Health Care Transactions