Despite new gas tax, California drivers pleased at pump

LOS ANGELES -- Gas prices have now fallen for 100 days in a row. AAA said a gallon of unleaded regular is averaging $2.22 nationwide.

In California, a new gas tax aimed at reducing carbon emissions could cause prices to rise 10 cents a gallon in a state that already has some of the highest prices in the nation.

Los Angeles gas station owner Andre van der Valk said the impact might have been painful a year ago. Now, it's barely noticeable.

That's because his prices are already $1.50 lower than last year, and he wants to see that trend continue. When prices were higher, van der Valk was actually making less money.

When prices peaked -- almost twice what they are now -- he said he had to absorb some of the cost, just to stay competitive.

"It's hard to believe, but that's the way it is," van der Valk said.

All these pennies per gallon really add up. AAA estimates Americans saved $14 billion last year because of falling gas prices.

"I used to fill up my gas tank with $70; now it's 40," said driver Priscilla Acosta.

Now, at the end of every month, she said there's an extra $130 in her pocket. A year ago, she dreaded coming to the gas station.

"I used to ride my bike; that's how bad it was," Acosta said.

"This is the quickest level of reductions that we've had since I've been in this business for the last 45 years," van der Valk said.

But like any economic cycle, van der Valk says enjoy this one while you can.

"We're going to be looking at going up," he said. "The question is when."