News Summary
Gas prices in California, particularly in Los Angeles County, have seen a slight rise following a larger decrease over the past month. The average price has increased minimally to $4.469 per gallon. Meanwhile, national averages are trending downwards. Additionally, California’s new Low Carbon Fuel Standard is expected to influence future gas prices, potentially raising them further. Discussions around California’s gasoline taxes and public transportation options are becoming increasingly important as consumers navigate these changes.
Gas Prices in California: A Small Rise with Big Discussions
As we gear up for another week, let’s chat about gas prices across our sunny state, particularly in Los Angeles County. Ever so slightly, the average price for a gallon of self-serve regular gasoline in this vibrant county has ticked up to 4.469 dollars. That’s a minuscule rise of just one-tenth of a cent we saw on Monday, right after a tiny increase of three-tenths of a cent Sunday. But let’s keep things in perspective; it’s only one-tenth of a cent up compared to last week. However, it is worth noting this is a drop of 6.1 cents compared to just a month ago and a significant drop of 9.5 cents from a year ago. Talk about a rollercoaster ride!
If we rewind a bit, we remember the jaw-dropping record of 6.493 dollars that hit on October 5, 2022. Since then, we’ve enjoyed a lovely decline of 2.024 dollars. And if you’re across the county line in Orange County, gas prices have seen a similar story. They too have seen a minor increase—just by one-tenth of a cent, pushing the average to 4.42 dollars. This follows a slightly larger leap (four-tenths of a cent) just a day earlier. Over the past week, gas prices there have crept up by 1.2 cents, dipped down by 5.3 cents over the past month, and slid down by 6.5 cents compared to the same time last year. Quite the fluctuating journey, wouldn’t you say?
What’s Happening Nationally?
Now, let’s take a peek at the bigger picture. Over on the national front, gas prices are on a downtrend, decreasing for the fifth consecutive day to an average of 3.138 dollars. This continues the trend of falling prices, down 3.2 cents in just five days and also lower by 1.4 cents from the previous week. In fact, the national average is down a whopping 30.7 cents from this time last year. Who knew gas could be such a dramatic affair?
Introducing California’s New Fuel Standard
Now, let’s shift gears to some important news that might affect your wallet. California has been in the spotlight for its revamped Low Carbon Fuel Standard, which is set to hit the ground running on Tuesday. While many are looking forward to the benefits of cleaner air, not everyone is thrilled, especially as this new rule could potentially lead to gas price increases between 5 and 8 cents per gallon. Historically, the previous standards added around 9 cents, so there’s a bit of concern brewing.
The California Air Resources Board is all about cutting down on carbon dioxide emissions—aiming for a whopping reduction of 558 million metric tons by 2046. But let’s talk about the naysayers who argue that these reductions might be a bit overblown, especially regarding biofuels. The new standard also expands a $2 billion market for cleaner fuels. It seems like a noble cause, but with that comes mixed feelings about future gas prices.
Excise Tax and Future Predictions
Speaking of prices, don’t forget about California’s gasoline excise tax, which is eyeing an increase of 1.6 cents per gallon starting July 1. This will take it to a total of 61.2 cents per gallon. Some experts warn that the stricter regulations associated with the Low Carbon Fuel Standard could lead to rather sharp future hikes in gas prices, possibly even soaring an additional 65 cents per gallon in the near term. In fact, if a prediction from a USC professor holds water, we could be shelling out a staggering 8 dollars a gallon by 2026. Gasp!
Governor Gavin Newsom’s administration, on the other hand, is pushing back against these dire predictions, insisting that there are ways to keep those expenses manageable for the everyday consumer. And let’s not forget the chatter amongst Californians, who are increasingly considering public transportation options as a way to navigate the unpredictable gas market.
Whatever the future holds, it’s safe to say that gas prices and the discussions surrounding them will continue to stir up a lot of conversations in the Golden State. Just make sure to keep an eye on those prices—and maybe carry a reusable shopping bag for those bus trips ahead!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Gas Prices in Southern California: A Steady Ride
Gas Prices Take a Slight Dip in Los Angeles
Southern California Faces Severe Heat Wave with Triple-Digit Temperatures
California Gas Prices Experience Slight Fluctuations
Gas Prices Dip Slightly in Los Angeles and Orange Counties
Monique Limón Elected as California Senate Leader
Los Angeles Residents Brace for Gas Price Fluctuations
Gas Prices Expected to Climb in California: What You Need to Know
Gas Prices in Los Angeles See Minor Drops
Additional Resources
- Stacker: How Gas Prices Have Changed in Los Angeles Last Week
- Wikipedia: Gasoline
- LAist: Controversial Climate Rule Which Could Raise Gas Prices About to Go Into Effect
- Google Search: California gas prices
- California Globe: Californians Choosing Between Gas or Groceries, Utility Bills or Rent
- Google Scholar: California gas prices
- LA Times: Ready for a Summer Road Trip? Here’s Why a Visit to the Gas Pump Could Cost You More in July
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gas Prices
- My News LA: Little Change to Average LA, Orange County Gas Prices
- Google News: California gas excise tax
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
