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California Faces Record Gasoline Imports Amid Refinery Crisis

2/17/2026

37 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

California imports a record amount of gasoline due to refinery closures and regulations.
In November, more than 40% of imported gasoline came from the Bahamas.
California gas prices reached $4.58 per gallon, the highest in the nation.
Governor Gavin Newsom is in discussions with Valero to keep the Benicia refinery open.
Refinery closures have forced suppliers to use costly shipping routes to bypass U.S. maritime laws.

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Story summary

California imports a record amount of gasoline due to refinery closures and regulations.
In November, more than 40% of imported gasoline came from the Bahamas.
California gas prices reached $4.58 per gallon, the highest in the nation.
Governor Gavin Newsom is in discussions with Valero to keep the Benicia refinery open.
Refinery closures have forced suppliers to use costly shipping routes to bypass U.S. maritime laws.