California drivers could face rising gas prices next year following a decision by state regulators to tighten fuel standards aimed at reducing pollution and decreasing reliance on fossil fuels.
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) approved the updated standards on Friday, establishing ambitious goals to cut emissions from fuel by 30% by 2030 and 90% by 2045.
“The low carbon fuel standard has already successfully created lower-cost, lower-carbon alternatives, and the benefits of the proposal vastly outweigh those costs,” Steven Cliff, CARB’s executive officer, stated last month.
CARB estimates that the stricter standards may increase gas prices by approximately 47 cents per gallon by 2025.
However, a study from the University of Pennsylvania suggests the price hike could be more significant, potentially reaching 65 cents per gallon in 2025, 85 cents by 2030, and nearly $1.50 by 2035.
The decision has drawn sharp criticism, particularly from Republican leaders in the state.“Today’s vote is nothing short of blatant price gouging by the Newsom Administration,” said Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones (R-San Diego).
“The Air Resources Board’s 65-cent gas price hike is a direct assault on hardworking Californians… [who] are forced into electric vehicles against their will.”
Assembly Minority Leader James Gallagher (R-Yuba City) shared similar concerns.
“Californians can’t afford higher gas prices. Democrat politicians have blocked every attempt to stop this spike, and they’ll have to answer to angry constituents when prices go up again,” Gallagher said.
On Monday, the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in California stood at $4.51, according to AAA, making it the second-highest in the nation, trailing only Alaska.
In 2019, the Trump administration rescinded California’s authority to set its own tailpipe emissions standards. President Joe Biden later reinstated the state’s rights, a decision that was upheld in federal court.
The CARB vote occurred a day after Governor Gavin Newsom convened a special legislative session to safeguard California’s environmental and liberal policies, preparing for potential challenges under former President Donald Trump’s anticipated second term.
