Gas going up to 8 a gallon in California?

California may experience a gas price increase to over $8 per gallon due to the impending closure of two refineries, as indicated by Professor Michael Mische from USC. Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones attributes these closures to regulatory policies that he believes are driving refineries away from the state, warning of an economic disaster for struggling families. In contrast, Governor Gavin Newsom's office asserts that the state is actively working to ensure a safe and reliable gasoline supply. Environmental advocate David Pettit argues that California's strict regulations are necessary to address its severe air quality issues, which are a contributing factor to current gas prices. Mische acknowledges that while his projections show rising prices, they could change based on various factors.

The governor's office has criticized Mische's study for being "unsourced," although he cites reputable organizations like the California Energy Commission. As the debate intensifies, the focus remains on the impact of refinery regulations and their implications for consumers. These developments underscore the ongoing tension between environmental policies and economic realities in California.