The average price of a gallon of gas in Massachusetts has surged 18 cents over the past month, hitting $2.39 on Monday, according to AAA.
“For nearly a year, motorists have been saving, compared to the previous year, when filling up their gas tanks. While prices locally are still cheaper than this time in 2020, that extra pocket change is quickly going to dwindle thanks to rising crude oil prices that have made for more expensive pump prices,” said Mary Maguire, AAA Northeast director of public and government affairs.
The average gas price a year ago in Massachusetts was 15 cents higher, at $2.54 per gallon.
Massachusetts lawmakers last session abandoned a push to raise the state gas tax, but prices at the pump could rise as Massachusetts continues its push to advance a regional compact to reduce carbon emissions in transportation. That pact is expected to lead to environmental benefits and clean energy progress.
Legislative leaders have not signaled whether they attempt to resurrect a package of taxes and fees to invest in transportation, an idea that at this time last year was gathering momentum before the pandemic arrived and shifted priorities.
