Washington

Washington State ‌Now Has the Nation’s Highest gas Prices,Exceeding California

Washington state is currently experiencing the highest ‌average gas prices in the United States,surpassing even⁢ California,a state historically known for its expensive fuel.‌ as of September 14th, the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Washington reached $4.66, according⁢ to AAA, considerably exceeding the national average‌ of $3.18. california’s average price‍ stands at $4.64 per gallon.

The‌ Seattle metropolitan area bears the ‌brunt of the high costs, with an average price of $4.81 per gallon. ​This ⁢surge is attributed to a combination of factors,including the‍ state’s already high gas taxes and costs associated with climate initiatives,compounded by recent tax increases.

A new gas tax implemented ​on July 1st added 6⁤ cents per gallon of unleaded, increasing Washington’s per-gallon tax rate ⁢from​ 49.4 cents ‍to ‍55.4 cents. Moreover,⁢ prices are‌ slated to ‌rise 2% annually to adjust for inflation, ⁢with diesel prices increasing by an additional 3⁣ cents in two years, followed by a 2% annual increase​ starting in 2028.⁤

In addition‌ to the gas tax, Washington’s⁣ CO2 emissions tax⁣ from the Climate Commitment Act⁤ also increased by 6 cents recently.While ​some blame this law – which requires businesses ⁢to pay fees for air pollution – for the price hikes, the State Department of Ecology maintains ⁤it isn’t the primary driver, noting‍ a recent increase of just over three cents per gallon mirrored a‌ national ​trend. Revenue generated from the CO2 emissions tax, totaling approximately $3.2 billion in​ its first two and a half years, is allocated to programs⁤ focused on ​reducing carbon emissions, expanding ​rural public transit, and supporting individuals with disabilities.

Seattle drivers are expressing mixed reactions to the rising costs. Timothy Durden, ⁢a Seattle​ resident, told KOMO News, ⁢”Seattle doesn’t‍ pay [any] money on ⁣the infrastructure here. You go down I-5,it bumps everything. So, I don’t think we spend‌ enough‌ money on that.” Another Seattle resident, Quinn Sullivan, commented, ⁤”We’re basically California now ⁤with our gas prices.”

Drivers are actively seeking the best deals, with some reporting prices nearing $5 a gallon near the⁢ airport prior to the July tax increase. The escalating prices are causing concern among those planning holiday travel.