Gov. Gavin Newsom has called for a special session to address the issue of high gas prices in California, proposing to give the California Energy Commission the power to mandate minimum levels of fuel inventories for refiners. However, experts, including governors from neighboring states, warn that this move could actually increase prices rather than lower them.
Critics point out that the high gas prices in California are not solely due to oil companies, but also as a result of taxes, regulations, and the overall high cost of doing business in the state. They argue that the government could lower prices if they wanted to, but they benefit from the tax revenue generated by high gas prices.
Suggestions have been made to hold a special session to address other pressing issues in the state, such as homelessness, education, high home prices, unemployment, and rising insurance rates. The state has the highest homelessness rate in the nation, low literacy rates, expensive housing, and high unemployment rates.
Proposed solutions include implementing effective reading instruction, addressing the high cost of living, creating more job opportunities, and tackling the issue of rising insurance rates. Critics argue that these issues are more deserving of attention than the political games being played around gas prices.
Jon Coupal, president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, emphasizes the need to address these pressing issues facing California rather than focusing solely on gas prices.
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