California’s Gas Price Crisis Deepens | Venice Beach News

California drivers face the priciest Fourth of July gas in four years, with branded stations charging far more than unbranded rivals — a gap wider than anywhere else in the nation. While supply issues get attention, economists point to algorithms, supplier contracts, and big-brand market power as the real drivers behind soaring prices. A federal lawsuit now targets fuel-pricing software and major retailers for allegedly inflating costs, while state lawmakers push for new wartime price-gouging laws. With refinery capacity shrinking and imports restricted, California is scrambling for solutions — from pipelines to fuel blends — as the battle shifts from production to retail pricing fairness. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/046a633db2311c9a