Recently published in all Southern California News Group outlets, including the Orange County Register, Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil made a plea to lower gas prices NOW.
She wrote:
“As the state senator representing the district, I hear every day from families struggling with our state’s high cost of living.
“California consistently has the highest gas prices in the nation. I've seen hardworking parents skip family outings or delay medical visits because filling the tank meant cutting back elsewhere. And with the possibility of $8 gas prices, it's time we address this head-on. Not with finger-pointing, but with practical solutions that put Californians first.
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"Over the years these taxes and policies created a chilling effect, making it even harder and more expensive for refineries to operate in California. Now we’re seeing the consequences.
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“It’s especially punishing for low and middle-income families in rural areas. Rural drivers spend about 9% of their household income on gas, nearly double the non-rural average, since they travel farther for basics like work or seeing a doctor. For lower-income rural households, that can climb to 25% or more.
“In our region where public transit is scarce, and electric vehicles are more costly and impractical, what we really need is common sense. My Republican colleagues and I recently sent a letter urging the governor to convene an emergency special session focused on these refinery closures and their impacts.
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“Governor, my message is clear. Call this special session so we can lower costs and build a more affordable future. California families, especially our rural and low-income ones, deserve no less.