California Air Quality Regulator Report Predicts Steep Gas Price Increases Through 2026

A report by a lesser-known California air quality regulator predicts that gas prices will increase by approximately 50 cents per gallon annually through 2026 due to changes in the state's Low Carbon Fuel Standard. Long-term projections show gas prices could increase by over $1 per gallon and diesel by $1.50 from 2031 to 2046 as the state pursues climate goals. A Republican state senator criticized the "secret" tax hike for penalizing most Californians, especially lower and middle-income residents. California is rapidly transitioning transportation to zero-emissions through mandates like banning new gas car sales by 2035.