Diesel prices just hit a new record. Would a U.S. export ban bring relief?

September 22, 2026 / 2:19 PM EDT / CBS News

Diesel prices just hit a new record. Would a U.S. export ban bring relief?

TL;DR

  • Republican lawmakers are calling for a ban on U.S. diesel exports to lower record-high prices.
  • Average diesel costs reached a record $6.53 a gallon, impacting agriculture, trucking, and construction.
  • Experts warn an export ban could backfire by worsening global supply issues and increasing prices.
  • The U.S. exports diesel because domestic refineries produce more than the country consumes.
  • Global factors like the Iran and Ukraine-Russia wars are causing production and shipping disruptions.
  • Russia's ban on diesel exports has removed significant supply from the international market.
  • An export ban could lead refiners to cut output or shift to producing other fuels, potentially raising prices.
  • Alternative solutions include waiving the Jones Act or temporarily suspending renewable fuel mandates.
  • Fears of widespread diesel shortages in the U.S. are considered unfounded by experts.