Gas pumps in Oklahoma City, December 5, 2023
Cars at gas pumps during Wawa opening, April 24, 2025
Man pumping gas in Kingston, Ohio, June 24, 2025
Woman assisting aunt off electric bus for testing
Gavin Newsom speaks in Salinas to support Democrats
Gavin Newsom speaking to fifth-graders in California
Gavin Newsom speaking to first-graders in California

Gas pumps in Oklahoma City, December 5, 2023

California gas prices have been expected to climb in July as the state’s excise tax has increased from 59.6 to 61.2 cents per gallon. The hike, which has been part of an annual inflation adjustment, has come as new low-carbon fuel standards also have taken effect. These regulations have raised production costs for fuel providers, further pressuring pump prices.

Cars at gas pumps during Wawa opening, April 24, 2025

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) mandates a 22.75% cut in carbon intensity from 2010 levels, forcing fuel producers to buy credits or use pricier clean fuels, raising prices. Closures of Phillips 66 and Valero refineries cut California’s gasoline suppliers from nine to seven, driving costs higher.

Man pumping gas in Kingston, Ohio, June 24, 2025

CARB disputed the 65 cent figure, calling it "misinformation." USC’s Michael Mische predicted gas could hit $6.43 after one refinery closure and $8.43 after the second.

Woman assisting aunt off electric bus for testing

A University of Pennsylvania report projects the LCFS will raise prices by 65 cents per gallon soon and 85 cents by 2030. Sen. Brian Jones (R-CA) launched a petition to repeal the hikes, gaining over 29,000 signatures.

Gavin Newsom speaks in Salinas to support Democrats

Jones said, "I'm really not too concerned about whether it's 10 cents or 65 cents. Basically we're splitting hairs at that point in time. It probably is in between somewhere. The bottom line is, these regulations are going to cause the price of gasoline to increase."

Gavin Newsom speaking to fifth-graders in California

Jones added, "Californians already face the highest gas prices in the country."

Gavin Newsom speaking to first-graders in California

Gov. Gavin Newsom said, "This is the most impactful step our state can take to fight climate change." Newsom has faced ongoing criticism for the rising prices across the state, particularly as government regulation has pushed out the key refineries.

Grace Hall covers U.S. politics & news for content partner Modern Newsstand LLC.