California's gas prices have increased yet again after the state gas tax jumped another 5.6 cents per gallon. The national average, calculated by AAA, is about $2.71, however California motorist are paying an average of $3.75 per gallon. As of today, July 1st, the sunshine state is currently spending 47.3 cents a gallon, according to the state Board of Equalization.
These increases stem from a 2017 initiative aimed to raise close to $50 billion over the next 10 years targeting road and mass transit programs.
The tax increase is estimated to cost motorist 78 cents more per 14-gallon tank, averaging $3 more per month and $37 more per year.
The impending 5.6 cents per gallon boost "will make California less affordable and take another $850 million out of our families' pocketbooks," said Senate Republican Leader Shannon Grove of Bakersfield. Assembly Republicans floated an amendment to delay the increase, but majority Democrats blocked the attempt two weeks before the increase takes effect.
Ride-share drivers are concerned about the increase noting how the bump in price could hurt their pockets. A Lyft spokesperson has stated that through a fuel rewards program, the company saves drivers up to 7 cents per gallon at participating stations.
The average price for gasoline statewide now is just over $4 a gallon.