California drivers brace for new Gas Tax…

California drivers are bracing for increasing gas prices. Starting November 1st, a 12 cent gas tax will be implemented across the state.

Governor Jerry Brown passed the Bill back in April that is expected to raise 5 billion dollars annually and close to 52 billion over the next decade.

Brown says the money will go toward state and local road repair, something some Central Coast Residents think is highly needed. “”I just rode down the coast and I think we have lots of need for infrastructure,” says Santa Cruz County resident Michael Brierley.

Other drivers say they are not surprised by the new tax, but hope to see some of the roads fixed soon.

“It seems like they always raise taxes for improving the roadways, but the roadways never seem to get improved.” says driver Mike Coleman.

UC Santa Cruz student, Allison Browne, says paying for housing is expensive enough and this is another payment adding to the bills, “Even just a small amount can be a lot, it’s just another thing to worry about.”

After adding this 12 cents, California’s gas tax rate will be more than 69 cents per gallon. That is the second highest in the nation next to Pennsylvania. The average gas tax by state is 49 cents per gallon.

Starting in January 2018, this same bill will also bring higher car registration fees.

There is a phone app that is free to use called Gas Buddy. This app helps you find the cheapest gas stations near you.