the root of this problem is the same root of all problems: polititcians. granted prices recently have skyrocketed, but a main problem that causes higher prices is the regulations and taxes on gas. every state has diferent taxes and quality controls of gasoline, so gas companys have to make state specific gas. if they make too much new york gas, they cant simply give it to new jersey, they will have to slow production or just lose money on this excess. if there was one unified tax rate and quality standard, gas companies can make as much as they feel necesarry and not have to worry about excess or drought, hence easign the pain of these prices... even if it is slightly. also that bit** katrina didnt help.