Farm Bureau Sends Letter to State Leaders Urging Fuel Cost Relief
Published Friday, October 2, 2026
As California diesel prices reach record levels, California Farm Bureau is raising farmers’ and ranchers’ concerns with state policymakers. Farm Bureau sent a letter to the chairs of the Assembly and Senate Transportation Committees urging immediate attention to the significant financial strain high diesel prices place on agricultural operations across the state.
According to AAA, California’s statewide average diesel price reached approximately $8.42 per gallon on Sept. 21, compared with a national average of about $6.51. That represents an increase of more than 55% since the outbreak of the conflict involving Iran. Just 11 days earlier, California diesel averaged $7.91 per gallon.
The price spike comes as California’s refining capacity has declined. The closures of the Phillips 66 Wilmington refinery and Valero’s Benicia refinery have reduced the state’s refining capacity by approximately 18%, increasing reliance on imported fuel.
Farm Bureau will continue providing member data, testimony and technical expertise as policymakers examine potential solutions to the state’s fuel-cost challenges.
Staff contact: Daniella Legostaev, dlegostaev@cfbf.com.
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