TRENTON, N.J. -- Drivers in New Jersey are enjoying the nation's lowest gas prices, just in time for the holiday weekend.
AAA reported that it's the only state where the average gallon of gas costs less than $3. That's due in part to lower taxes. An American Petroleum Institute report found in March that people in New Jersey pay about 30 cents a gallon in state and federal taxes. That's the third-lowest rate in the country.
New Jersey motorists also benefit from in-state oil refineries. AAA said having them nearby helps keep industry transportation costs down.
Prices at New Jersey pumps are about 50 cents less per-gallon than states with the highest prices, which are Illinois, Michigan, Indiana and California.
$3.49 Gas Common Today in Ohio-- Gasoline prices are inflicting a new level of pain in Ohio. Service stations all around the state are now selling regular-grade gas for three dollars and 49 cents per gallon, according to GasBuddy-dot-com.
The Web site's information is based on reports from consumers.
Experts had predicted that already-high gas prices would rise even further this week ahead of the Memorial Day weekend, when the unofficial start of the summer driving season typically brings an increase in demand for fuel.
The Triple-A says regular gas is selling for an average of about three dollars and 23 cents statewide, and the auto club says that's a record high.
Don Cardi
Five - ten years from now, they're gonna wish there was American Cosa Nostra. Five - ten years from now, they're gonna miss John Gotti.
