Rep. Rogers Says Ohioans Deserve Lasting Affordability

COLUMBUS – State Representative Elgin Rogers, Jr. (D-Toledo) released the following statement explaining his vote against the 90-day gas-tax holiday contained in Sub. House Bill 519:

“Let me be clear: I support lowering gas prices and putting more money back into the pockets of Ohio families. My concern is not with providing relief—it is with how we provide it, how long it lasts, and who ultimately pays for it.

Ohio families are struggling with mortgages, rent, groceries, utilities, health care, insurance, child care and transportation. They need meaningful relief from the overall cost of living—not simply 90 days of relief at the pump.

Supporters of House Bill 519 say the legislation will provide approximately $725 million in relief while ensuring funding remains available for Ohio’s roads and construction projects. But that raises an important question: If the state is replacing that revenue with other public dollars, how much of the $725 million actually stays in your pocket—and where does the replacement money ultimately come from?

That is the conversation taxpayers deserve.

A temporary reduction at the pump may provide some immediate savings. But we should not confuse shifting the source of government funding with creating long-term household savings.

That is the pump fake.

If Ohio can commit hundreds of millions of dollars to provide 90 days of relief, then we should bring that same urgency to providing 365 days of affordability—lower everyday costs, affordable child care and housing, accessible health care, reasonable utility costs, and an economy where working families can actually get ahead.

This debate is bigger than gasoline. It is about whether we are simply moving money around or actually making life more affordable for Ohioans.

My message is simple: DON’T FALL FOR THE PUMP FAKE.

I am ready to work with Republicans and Democrats on serious, sustainable solutions. Ohioans don't need affordability for just 90 days. They need an affordability strategy that works 365 days a year.

Eventually, somebody pays the bill. We should make sure Ohio’s working families aren't the ones left holding it.”