REFINERY FILES: California’s Hidden Cap-and-Trade Tax California cap-and-trade program forces refineries to buy carbon emission credits, costing approximately 30¢ per gallon passed to consumers. Not listed separately on pump, buried in base price. Combined with 77.9¢ visible state taxes equals over $1 per gallon in taxes and fees. Texas and most states don’t have cap-and-trade. Hidden cost layer California drivers pay. From gas price frustration to national security, this affects us all. California gas prices, refinery closures, energy policy, fuel costs, California refineries, oil industry, who profits, cap and trade tax, hidden gasoline tax, California carbon credits, cap and trade fee, hidden fuel costs