Trump Administration Invokes Defense Production Act for $150M Fuel Production

The Trump administration said Thursday it will invoke the Defense Production Act to direct $150 million toward expanding U.S. production of gasoline and diesel. The Department of Energy says the goal is to boost refining output by “millions of gallons per day” to reduce prices, which have averaged more than $4 per gallon for the past three months. Energy experts and industry groups, however, argue the move won’t bring quick savings. Patrick De Haan of GasBuddy told CBS News the drivers’ costs are being set by global crude prices—Brent at $116 a barrel and WTI near $103. Analysts say U.S. refining is already at full capacity.