Payam Javan: California Governor Gavin Newsom announced plans on Thursday to address the surging gas prices in the state, potentially sparking a new conflict between state lawmakers and oil companies.

Gas prices in the Bay Area have risen by 60 to 70 cents per gallon in recent days, prompting frustration among drivers and politicians.

Newsom highlighted a newly-established oversight body with subpoena powers over oil companies to investigate the significant gap of over $2 per gallon between California and the national average. While the governor and commuters express anger at what they perceive as exploitation by oil companies, industry representatives argue that high taxes in California contribute to the elevated prices.

In response, Republican legislators called for a special legislative session to temporarily suspend California’s gas tax as a measure to address the issue.