Gas taxes go up Aug. 1, but price impact might not be immediate

SEATTLE, Wash. — Washington's gas tax increases seven cents Aug. 1, but drivers might not immediately pay higher prices at all gas stations.

Gas taxes are not actually collected at the pump but at the time a delivery truck is filled.

That's why some station owners predict in early August, they'll still be selling gas they bought in July.

"There is a bit of a delay, it depends on the time of delivery," said Jim Kahn, who owns two 76 stations in Seattle.

Kahn said he might even absorb the extra cost for as long as a month.

"We look at the competition, what everybody else is doing. You'll see a penny or two increase but not the full seven cents," Kahn said.

Andrew Raab, of Auburn Valley Chevron, said he doesn't have the option to delay raising prices.

"I'm a small operator, so I can't afford to do that,. I need to pass it along to the general public," Raab said.

Industry leaders say many gas stations operate on small margins.

One thing could insulate customers at all stations. A gas price decrease some analysts predict is coming this fall.

"It could be a wash so you don't see much of a difference," Kahn said.

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