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Abstract [optional]

Introduction
[Introduction goes here.] [the purpose of the paper]

Price Controls
I do not support gas price controls, or more specifically, price ceilings on gasoline because they
do not help the economy in the long run. The laws of supply and demand dictate that the market
itself should be the determining factor of prices, which change with the supply and demand of
specific goods in the market. A couple factors such as the negative effects on the Law of Supply,
and the hidden costs to customers make price ceilings an unpopular choice for most economies.
Within the Law of Supply, certain determinants are affected when price controls are
imposed. Although it may not be apparent in the short-run, price ceilings will limit the number
of producers entering the market due to the increased difficulty of making a profit because of the
prices imposed on their goods. In addition to limiting the number of producers, price ceilings
reduce the need to be competitive, which leaves companies little incentive to increase efficiency
and innovative initiatives in the way they produce and procure their products to lower the prices
themselves.

Price Ceiling on Oil

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In the past, such as the price ceiling on oil during the 1970s in the United States, price controls
created disequilibrium between supply and demand which resulted in a shortage of gasoline
during that time. This meant that those that were willing and able to purchase gas could not do
so. With the intent on keeping prices down, customers often pay hidden costs that are not related
to prices (Ellig, 2003). Long waits in line, increased stress through competitive acquisition of
the limited goods, and the inability to purchase those goods regardless of financial standing takes
its own toll on the economy.

Conclusion
History has already showed us the results of price controls in the market. Although the longterm effects may not be apparent, such as companies shutting down because of its inability to
maintain the controlled prices and the unemployment that follow it is real. Artificially changing
the laws of supply and demand and the additional non-monetary costs to the customers can lead
to a bigger problem than just higher gas prices. The market should be allowed to pursue its
equilibrium without any interference.

Bibliography/References

[Type references alphabetically; format APA]

Last Name, First Initial. Middle Initial. (year). Name of article in sentence case: If there is a subtitle, it
should also be in sentence case. Name of Journal in Title Case, volume(issue), first page-last
page. Retrieved Month Day, Year, from name of database (if applicable) and specific URL.

Ellig, Jerry (2003, January 28). Competition and Effects of Price Control. Retrieved May 2,
2008, from Federal Trade Commision Web site: http://www.ftc.gov/be/v030005.shtm