Gas prices drop in Bay State

Gas prices have dropped a nickel in the last week, hitting $3.64 in Massachusetts despite the war in Israel and the decision by OPEC countries earlier this year to ratchet down production. The price at the pump is a full 13 cents lower than just a month ago.

“Domestic gasoline prices have continued their daily decline despite uncertainty and volatility gripping oil markets last week after the outbreak of war in Israel …” said AAA Northeast Senior Spokesperson Mark Schieldrop. “Meanwhile, domestic oil production reached an all-time high last week and demand remains tepid, which suggest further price drops at the pump in the weeks ahead.”

Gas in Massachusetts is running about 4 cents higher than the national average, which came in at $3.60 per gallon in the most recent survey.

CCC names acting director

Cannabis regulators decided Monday to appoint their head of human resources as acting executive director of the Cannabis Control Commission while its administrative head is out on leave and as important business continues at the CCC.

Chief People Officer Debra Hilton-Creek will serve as acting executive director of the CCC “until the return of” Executive Director Shawn Collins, who is out on parental leave. Acting Chair Ava Callender Concepcion nominated Hilton-Creek, a relative newcomer to the CCC, for the position and said it would be “for the next few months moving forward.”

The unanimous vote of the four active commissioners Monday provides an added measure of certainty around one of two CCC leadership positions.