California Gas Prices Inch Up? Relief in Sight for Drivers?

California Gas Prices Inch Up: Overnight, gas prices in the Los Angeles area increased again, but not nearly as much as in recent days, and state officials are taking action to provide relief.

The average price of a regular gallon of gasoline increased by three cents on Friday morning, following a 13-cent increase the previous day.

The average price listed by AAA was $6.32, which is up 28 cents from a week ago and 95 cents from a month ago.

The statewide average is approximately $6.08, which is more than $2 above the national average of $3.83.

In response to the elevated prices, Governor Gavin Newsom has authorized state officials to distribute winter-blend gasoline before the customary deadline of October 31.

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California Gas Prices Inch Up?

“Due to the composition of the gasoline, refiners can produce more winter-blend than summer-blend,” Newsom wrote in a letter to the Chair of the California Air Resources Board and the Chair of the California Energy Commission.

“Allowing refiners to make an early transition to winter-blend gasoline could quickly increase fuel supply, provide critical liquidity on the spot market, and act as a much-needed safety valve,” he added.

Newsom also requested that these officials investigate and report on ways to prevent “market-distorting behavior between refiners and traders that the current structure of that market may allow,” which he attributes to the price spikes this autumn and last.

Nonetheless, state Republicans blame California’s 58-cent-per-gallon petroleum tax.

As reported by The San Joaquin Valley Sun, Assembly GOP Leader James Gallagher stated, “[The move to winter blend gasoline] is a win for motorists, but Newsom must do more to reduce gas prices.” “Enough with the pointing of fingers, phony investigations, and baseless accusations of price profiteering. Everyone is aware that California’s taxes and regulations contribute to high prices, so let’s correct this and provide drivers with relief.”