California gas prices could top 8 a gallon by 2026, new study says

California gas prices, currently the highest in the nation, might surpass $8 a gallon by 2026, as predicted by USC professor Michael Mische. He links this forecast to imminent refinery closures in Benicia and Los Angeles, which will decrease oil supplies. Julian Vogel of San Jose State University emphasized that California's total reliance on marine shipments for oil imports makes it challenging to replace lost supplies. Local drivers expressed anxiety over rising costs, with many considering public transportation options if prices spike significantly. Governor Gavin Newsom has pushed back against Mische's findings, questioning both his credibility and the predictive model used.

Mische believes state lawmakers could take steps to mitigate gas prices, such as rolling back the state excise tax and delaying low carbon fuel standards. As of now, the average gas price in California stands at $4. 85 a gallon. The ongoing debate over gas pricing highlights the economic challenges facing California consumers.