Rep. Tims Votes No on HB 1019: 38.5 Cents Is a "Political Moment," Not Relief

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Desiree Tims (D-Dayton) today voted no on the House floor against House Bill 1019, a proposed 90-day holiday on Ohio’s state tax on gasoline and diesel. The bill would cut the state motor fuel tax to nearly zero for the length of the holiday, about 38.5 cents off every gallon of gas , 47 cents off diesel, and would appropriate $726 million from the state’s General Revenue Fund to make payments to gas stations across Ohio.

“This is not a relief for Ohioans. This is about political gain,” said Rep. Tims.

Tims said the money would be better spent on the needs Ohioans face right now. She pointed to Medicaid cuts across the state, nursing home residents being forced out and the underfunding of public schools in Ohio.

“Right now, Medicaid is being cut and providers are being dropped. Ohioans are rightfully frustrated at the pumps, and they would agree that the 38.5 cents back in their pocket compared to the $300 million going to oil companies is a bad idea,” Rep. Tims stated.

Tims said high gas prices did not start at an Ohio gas pump, and she tied them to the war in Iran and what she called the incompetence of the leadership in Washington. She warned that prices will keep climbing over the next 90 days and that the savings would not let Ohioans catch up.

“Whatever Ohioans save today, the market takes back tomorrow. That is not a relief. That is a temporary fix with a $726 million price tag,” added Rep. Tims.

Tims also noted that House Democrats introduced a variety of affordability bills in the House, which includes addressing the high costs of utility bills and rising rents.

“The courageous thing would be to put every Ohioan first, by addressing the high cost of living now, not just 30 days before election day. Now that would be bold, decisive leadership. Not standing here for 38 cents and a $300 million dollar pay day to oil companies,” Rep. Tims concluded.