Gas prices fare more expensive monthly

CHICAGO –  State and local gas prices continue to increase month after month. Since January, consumers have been paying up to 30 cents more per gallon each month, with this month fairing no different. According to the American Automobile Association, the state averages $2.97 per gallon, an 80 cent increase since the start of the year. LaSalle and Bureau County are also feeling the sting, at an average of $2.82 per gallon, a 28 cent increase compared to last month. Putnam County continues to rank the most expensive locally, at $2.87 per gallon, a 13 cent increase.