Summary: GAO reviewed the adequacy of the Department of Energy's (DOE) allocation information and the ability of DOE and State energy officials to act in critical supply shortage situations to allocate available supplies fairly and in accordance with priority needs. The 1979 gasoline shortage was an example of the Government's lack of preparedness to minimize the impacts of energy emergencies and a reminder of the Government's continued dependence on foreign oil supplies and the everpresent threat of supply disruptions. When the supply shortage began in early 1979, the Nation's emergency response planning was incomplete and outdated, and Federal and State Governments were ill-prepared to deal with their management role. Moreover, the program operations of DOE were plagued by inadequate management and staffing, relentless demands for services, poor or totally lacking information systems, and unclear guidance and direction. GAO believes that the necessary changes to the petroleum allocation program should include: (1) provisions for strong leadership and direction; (2) simplicity in design and operation which emphasizes timeliness and quality of service; (3) recognition of the distinct, but complementary, roles and responsibilities of Government and industry; (4) provisions for program monitoring to insure that desired results are being achieved and needed adjustments are made; and (5) provisions for a strong compliance and enforcement program to insure that abuses and violations are detected and vigorously pursued.
