By fitsnews – March 15, 2012
Every month, we’re taking a snapshot of gas prices in South Carolina and looking at how they compare to prices elsewhere.
When we checked in January, the average price per gallon of unleaded gasoline was $3.22 (compared to $3.37 nationally). Last month, that price had shot up to $3.38 (compared to $3.49 nationally).
This month? According to the AAA Daily Fuel Gauge Report, gas prices in South Carolina have climbed to an average of $3.58 per gallon – a twenty cent hike – although the national average shot up 33 cents, to $3.82.
Obviously this pain at the pump has economic – and political – ramifications. And while gas in South Carolina remains cheaper than it is in most other states, our summer tourism boom is likely to suffer if fuel costs get too much higher.
“Republican” legislative leaders at the S.C. State House have toyed with the idea raising the state’s gas tax in recent years – while one Democratic lawmaker (S.C. Rep. Bakari Sellers) wants to pass a modest gas tax cut.
We don’t see either proposal being approved during the current legislation, but we obviously support Sellers’ plan …
How are gas prices in your neighborhood? Our local station in downtown Columbia, S.C. is currently selling a gallon of unleaded gas for $3.63. Share your “pain at the pump” by posting in our comments section below …
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