Nevada observers in Arco merger

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Friday, Jan. 14, 2000 | 11:31 a.m.

Nevada officials are monitoring the battle between the Federal Trade Commission, Arco and London-based BP Amoco Plc, but have no immediate plans to enter the fray.

The battle centers around BP Amoco's plans to proceed with its $36 billion acquisition of Los Angeles-based Atlantic Richfield Co. (Arco).

Federal trade officials -- along with the California Attorney General's office -- are concerned the merger would result in BP Amoco having too much sway over control and distribution of Alaskan oil and gasoline in the Western United States.

Nevada Attorney General's office spokesman Steve George said the AG's office is in "close contact" with California's attorney general but doesn't plan to launch its own investigation.

"There's a question of resources (in Nevada)," he said. "However, we haven't entirely ruled out the possibility of taking any future action."

A spokesman for Sen. Richard Bryan, D-Nev., said the senator has not -- as yet -- taken a public position on the proposed merger. Bryan has been active in gasoline price issues.