HONOLULU -- Negotiations over whether to end the gas cap law began on Wednesday with a new twist. Democrats in the state House proposed jail time for gasoline company executives who try to gouge consumers.

Even as the gas cap is about to lead to higher prices again, lawmakers still haven't figured out exactly how to walk away from it.

At the Capitol, Democrats from the House and Senate still wanted to make sure that even without price regulation they can be tough on gas companies.

"I think consumers would expect to see some relief," Sen. Ron Menor, who was the primary architect of the wholesale gas cap.

The Senate is not proposing getting rid of the cap entirely. It would come back if prices went too high for a few weeks in a row.

The House said that plan is too complicated. House members want the cap repealed for good, but threaten gasoline executive with up to five years in prison if they unfairly manipulate the free market.

"Those instances would probably prompt a criminal or civil investigation and possibly prosecution," Rep. Marcus Oshiro said.

A gas company executive thinks that's a bit harsh and unnecessary.

"I don't think any of the actions I've seen in our markets approach anything near criminal; certainly not by our company," Aloha Petroleum President Bob Maynard said.

Lawmakers agreed to meet again Friday.