Starting July 1, California residents will face another gas price hike. With new climate regulations and a simultaneous increase in gasoline taxes, prices could rise by up to 65 cents per gallon, adding significant pressure to the state��s already nation-leading gas costs.

The primary driver of this increase is the amended ��Low Carbon Fuel Standard�� approved last fall by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). This standard raises costs for refineries producing high-carbon fuels, costs likely to be passed on to consumers. Additionally, the state��s gasoline excise tax will increase by 2 cents per gallon, bringing the total to 61.2 cents.

Opposition to these measures has been strong. Republican State Senator Brian Jones (San Diego) introduced Senate Bill 2 (SB 2) to nullify CARB��s regulatory changes, but it was rejected on June 4 in a 10-23 Senate vote, with all Democratic senators opposing.
Jones criticized the measures, stating, ��With persistent inflation and rising energy costs, this is another major blow to struggling Californians. We need balance between climate goals and the economic realities of working families.�� He highlighted the lack of practical alternatives for residents in suburban or low-transit areas who rely on cars.
In contrast, Democratic senators defended the new fuel standards as essential for combating climate change. Senate Democratic Leader Lena Gonzalez called them ��critical for a sustainable future,�� emphasizing their role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and accelerating the shift to cleaner fuels.

CARB acknowledged consumer concerns, stating it will ��monitor unexpected market impacts.�� However, many residents are already worried about the financial burden they��ll feel at the pump next month.

California��s gas prices are already over $1 higher than the national average. In areas with limited access to electric vehicles or public transit, particularly for middle- and low-income communities with high gasoline dependency, the price hike could be especially burdensome. Experts note that while these measures may drive long-term transitions to greener energy, they are likely to cause significant short-term economic strain for residents.

By Sehee Roh, Reporter