• Families will soon be packing up their cars, pulling out the maps, and jumping on the road to enjoy the beautiful summer weather in South Dakota. Tourism is the number two industry in South Dakota, so we understand the implications that higher gas prices mean not only for our own summer plans, but also for the plans of thousands of other families hoping to enjoy some summer fun in our state.
• Increases in gas prices across South Dakota and surrounding areas of the Midwest continue to squeeze American families and small businesses who are still dealing with a historically slow economic recovery. The financial pain of high gas prices is not limited to filling up our own vehicles. The price of gasoline is driving up the cost of goods and services each of us rely upon. For example, the price to transport everyday household goods is higher due to increased gas prices; these fuel costs are passed on to the consumers in the form of higher prices. The high gas prices also impact the state's number one industry--agriculture. Farmers and ranchers, who rely on the use of tractors, combines, and other equipment, also feel the

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