Staff Reports
A gas station in Menlo Park, California, is making headlines for charging $7.29 per gallon of regular unleaded gas, which is higher than the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. The Menlo Park Chevron station’s prices have caught the attention of social media users, with one Twitter user sharing a photo of the pricey gas. This station’s gas prices are significantly higher than the statewide average in California, which stands at $5.43 per gallon.
California’s minimum wage is set at $16.00 per hour, which is much higher than the federal minimum wage. The soaring gas prices in California, averaging $3.68 per gallon nationwide, have been a cause for concern, with prices increasing from $4.90 per gallon in the previous year. The Biden administration is closely monitoring the situation, acknowledging the impact of rising gas prices on American families, especially as the summer driving season approaches.
Santa Monica City Council Okays $123 Million for 122-Unit Homeless Housing Complex https://t.co/KntpYEjbUG
— NahBabyNah (@NahBabyNah) April 22, 2024
From a conservative standpoint, these exorbitant gas prices in California serve as a prime example of the consequences of progressive economic policies. The state’s high minimum wage and strict environmental regulations contribute to increased costs for businesses, ultimately passed down to consumers in the form of higher prices at the pump. As the White House vows to keep gas prices “affordable,” it is crucial to consider the role of government intervention in distorting market forces and driving up costs for hardworking Americans
