State enjoys solo ride on gas

As gasoline costs go up across the nation, an expected tax cut could lower them in Hawaii

The mainland average price for gasoline has set a new record almost daily, but Hawaii’s statewide average of $3.38 a gallon is well below the post-Hurricane Katrina record of $3.68.

While some are forecasting even higher prices on the mainland, Hawaii’s prices are expected to come down if Gov. Linda Lingle signs a bill restoring a general excise tax exemption on ethanol-blended fuel. Lingle has supported the GET forgiveness in the past.


The cut is estimated at 10 to 14 cents, a dip that would drop Hawaii’s statewide average from fourth highest in the country to 13th.

Paul Brewbaker, chief economist for Bank of Hawaii, has a hard time predicting how high Hawaii’s pump prices might get this summer. “It all depends on what’s going on in any given day,” he said.

Honolulu Star-Bulletin