Fuel costs in South Carolina have jumped sharply this week, adding to a nationwide surge that began after Labor Day. According to the American Automobile Association, the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded in the Palmetto State reached $3.9243 on Monday, September 14, up 4.64% from the previous week, 7.42% from last month and 39.13% from the same time last year.
Diesel Prices Hit Record Levels
Diesel, which powers roughly 97% of the nation’s tractor‑trailer fleet, set a new state record of $6.04 per gallon. That represents a 5.73% increase from a week ago, a 14.85% rise from a month ago and a staggering 76.94% jump from a year earlier.
State Leaders Resist Tax Relief
Despite the sharp climb, state legislative leaders have declined to suspend the 28.75‑cent per‑gallon gasoline tax. House Speaker Murrell Smith and Ways and Means Chairman Bruce Bannister blocked a House vote that would have temporarily halted the tax, arguing that the revenue supports essential state programs.
Governor Henry McMaster, who has previously used the issue for political leverage, has not yet announced a formal response. Critics, including agriculture commissioner candidate Cody Simpson and Attorney General Alan Wilson, are urging the governor to call an emergency session of the General Assembly and use his platform to push for a tax suspension.
Impact on Families and Farmers
Local farmers, foresters, small‑business owners and families are feeling the squeeze at the pump. “Our farmers, foresters, small businesses, and families need relief at the pump,” Simpson said. “Lower fuel costs mean lower costs at the grocery and hardware stores too.” An analysis by FinanceBuzz found South Carolinians spend 2.82% of their income on gasoline, above the national average of 2.28%.
National Context
Nationally, regular unleaded averaged $4.3163 per gallon on the same day, a 3.9% weekly increase and a 35.94% rise from a year ago. Diesel reached $6.23 per gallon, up 5.57% week‑over‑week and 68.73% year‑over‑year. Prices have risen 48.33% since December across the United States.
The surge follows President Trump’s decision in February to launch a limited military operation against the Islamic Republic of Iran, a move that has extended into a costly stalemate. While the administration cites national security concerns, the resulting economic ripple effects are evident at the local pump.
Looking Ahead
With forecasts indicating further price increases, South Carolina residents and policymakers face a critical decision point. Whether the state will ultimately suspend its gasoline tax—or find alternative relief measures—remains to be seen, but the pressure from constituents is mounting.
Original reporting: FITSNews — read the source article.
