Governor Newsom Directs Regulators to Expedite Winter-Blend Gasoline Use to Lower Prices
Governor Gavin Newsom has directed California regulators to permit the early use of cheaper winter-blend gasoline, aiming to lower high gas prices across the state, including the Sacramento-Stockton-Modesto region.
Sacramento Stockton Modesto, CA, September 28, 2026 —
Governor Gavin Newsom has instructed California regulators to allow for the earlier use of winter-blend gasoline. The directive aims to reduce the high cost of fuel for consumers across the state, with specific mention of the Sacramento-Stockton-Modesto region.
Winter-blend gasoline typically contains more volatile compounds, making it less expensive to produce than the summer-blend formulation. By permitting its earlier introduction, state officials hope to provide relief at the pump.
The specific timeline for when this early use of winter-blend gasoline will be permitted was not detailed in the directive. Regulators will be responsible for implementing the change.
High gasoline prices have been a significant concern for residents. This action by Governor Newsom seeks to address these concerns by leveraging a standard market mechanism to potentially decrease retail fuel costs.
The Sacramento-Stockton-Modesto region is among the areas identified as benefiting from this measure, though the extent of the price reduction or the timeline for its impact remains to be seen.
The governor’s office did not provide further details regarding the specific regulatory changes or the anticipated impact on fuel prices beyond the general goal of lowering them.
Story summarized from the original created by Brett Stover on fox40.com, see more information here.
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