Combating Rising Gas Prices
Gas prices are climbing and they are affecting millions of Americans, especially those of us who travel the highways of Southern California. As a result, drivers are asking some hard questions. How did we get here? Why is gas so expensive? What can be done to bring down prices? Unfortunately, this problem has been decades in the making. We have not built a new refinery in this country for nearly three decades. We have not engaged in nearly enough responsible, environmentally sound domestic exploration. At the same time, we have seen a dramatic increase in worldwide demand for gasoline. Simply put, we just aren’t producing enough here at home to avoid being impacted by the increased international demand.
There are a number of factors when it comes to pricing a gallon of gas which you can see at the Department of Energy’s web site - http://tonto.eia.doe.gov/oog/info/gdu/gasdiesel.asp
The cost of a gallon of gas is primarily determined by the price of crude oil. After that, refining, distribution and marketing, and taxes all play a role. As of March 2008, the cost of taxes (12%) was outweighing the costs of refining (8%) and distribution and marketing (8%). As a result, there are multiple proposals for a gas tax holiday this summer. Congress is currently taking a closer look.
So what can we do? First of all, we need to engage in environmentally responsible domestic exploration. I have supported efforts to expand deep ocean exploration. I have also voted to expand refinery capacity, something we desperately need. Additionally, I have voted repeatedly to prohibit price gouging and provide criminal and civil penalties for engaging in the process. Expanding and incentivizing fuel options like renewables, biodiesel, or coal-based synthetic fuels can also help ease the pain at the pump. Finally, we need to provide tax credits for fuel efficient vehicles.
How we drive can also make a big difference. Here are a few tips. For starters – we can all slow down. Excessive speeding, acceleration and braking can actually waste gas. Secondly, a properly maintained car will burn less gas; something like low tire pressure can affect a car’s performance, and force it to burn more gas. Third, limiting time in the car by running errands together or using mass transit can make a big difference.
The impact of gas prices is taking its toll on working families, and much needs to be done to prevent further escalation. I pledge to continue looking for ways to bring down the cost of gas, and reduce our dependence on foreign oil. Doing so is key to our economic and national security.
