There’s a lot of discussion around gas prices, especially as we near another holiday. But, there could be some slightly good news.
AAA is expecting gas prices to dip slightly ahead of the July 4th travel weekend. But, the company states price fluctuations are still possible as the busy Independence Day weekend gets closer.
“Drivers are seeing minor relief at the gas pump with prices dropping an average of nine cents a gallon compared to last week,” said AAA Spokesperson Nick Chabarria. “Prices could fluctuate as the busy Independence Day holiday approaches. Despite unusually high gas prices, automobile travel is expected to set a new record with 42 million Americans driving to their holiday destination. The record travel could put more pressure on demand at a time when supplies are very tight.”
AAA states crude oil prices recently declined slightly, but they’re still above $105 per barrel.
4-State Gas Price Averages (AAA) (June 23)
Missouri Average Regular Gas Prices
- Current Avg. $4.641
- Yesterday Avg. $4.651
- Week Ago Avg. $4.683
- Month Ago Avg. $4.157
- Year Ago Avg. $2.750
Kansas Average Regular Gas Prices
- Current Avg. $4.629
- Yesterday Avg. $4.639
- Week Ago Avg. $4.671
- Month Ago Avg. $4.046
- Year Ago Avg. $2.836
Oklahoma Average Regular Gas Prices
- Current Avg. $4.615
- Yesterday Avg. $4.622
- Week Ago Avg. $4.665
- Month Ago Avg. $4.037
- Year Ago Avg. $2.775
Arkansas Average Regular Gas Prices
- Current Avg. $4.489
- Yesterday Avg. $4.500
- Week Ago Avg. $4.536
- Month Ago Avg. $4.115
- Year Ago Avg. $2.768
The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $4.94, which is seven cents less compared to this day last week and $1.87 more than the price per gallon at this same time last year, according to AAA Gas Prices.
Gas Tax Holiday Proposal
The Biden administration has been discussing a possible gas tax holiday.
> Read More about the Proposal: EXPLAINER: How Biden’s proposed gas tax holiday would work
As a result, the impact of gas tax holiday proposals, whether at a state or federal level, may be limited because any price reduction from the lack of taxes can be quickly offset by a steady increase in oil prices. According to AAA, in addition, if a gas tax holiday is implemented, it is unclear to what extent any savings would be passed along to the consumer or if there would be an impact to funds that are usually allocated for much needed infrastructure improvement, maintenance, and safety.
AAA Tips to save money on fuel
Bad driving isn’t just unsafe. It’s expensive. Studies have repeatedly shown that personal driving habits are the single biggest factor that affects vehicle fuel consumption. Adopting new and improved driving behaviors can contribute to significant savings at the gas pump. Here are some simple ways drivers can improve fuel efficiency:
- Slow down and drive the speed limit. Higher speeds result in more aerodynamic drag.
- Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and hard accelerations. These actions greatly increase fuel consumption.
- Use cruise control on the highway to help maintain a constant speed and save fuel. However, never use cruise control on slippery roads because a loss of vehicle control could result.
- Minimize your use of air conditioning.
- Avoid extended idling to warm up the engine, even in colder temperatures. It’s unnecessary and wastes fuel.
- Maintain your car according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular service will ensure optimum fuel economy.
- Make sure your tires are properly maintained and inflated to the correct level.
- When driving in town, adjust your speed to “time” the traffic lights. This reduces repeated braking and acceleration that consume additional fuel.
- When approaching a red light or stop sign, take your foot off the gas early and allow your car to coast down to a slower speed until it is time to brake.
- Download the AAA App to find the cheapest gas prices near you.
Information about AAA Approved repair shops can be located at AAA.com/repair or by calling your local AAA branch.