California’s Regulations, Not Price Gouging, Cause High Gas Prices: USC Professor

Gov. Gavin Newsom disputed the study and vowed to continue his fight to regulate Big Oil.
California’s Regulations, Not Price Gouging, Cause High Gas Prices: USC Professor
A man pumps gas on Oct. 2, 2023, in Alhambra, Calif. California has the highest gas prices in the nation, with an average of $4.85 per gallon. Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images
Jill McLaughlin
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Gov. Gavin Newsom stands behind his claim that “Big Oil” is responsible for California’s higher gas prices and vowed on April 1 to continue his fight against the industry. The pledge comes after new research put the blame on state regulations and policies for the high prices at the pump.

California’s Democratic leaders have come out strongly against the oil industry in recent years, saying the companies’ gouging was causing record-high gas prices.
Jill McLaughlin
Jill McLaughlin
Author
Jill McLaughlin is an award-winning journalist covering politics, environment, and statewide issues. She has been a reporter and editor for newspapers in Oregon, Nevada, and New Mexico. Jill was born in Yosemite National Park and enjoys the majestic outdoors, traveling, golfing, and hiking.