Rising gas prices are increasing across Colorado, with the average price of gasoline reaching about $3.63 per gallon and the state at $3.,68 per gallon. Economists say fuel costs affect nearly every part of the economy as petroleum products are used to transport goods and power industries across the country. Dr. Joe Craig, an economist at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, said demand for gasoline remains inelastic, meaning people and businesses still need it even when prices rise. This is particularly noticeable in industries that rely heavily on fuel. Higher diesel costs eventually trickle down to consumers as businesses adjust prices for transportation and shipping. The uncertainty over how long prices could remain elevated has led to concern about how long they could rise, with Ivan Solorzano, a truck driver with Patsy Transport, expressing frustration over the potential price rise.