State Reps. Andrea White, Jim Thomas to Introduce Legislation Temporarily Suspending the State Gas Tax

State Representatives Andrea White (R-Kettering) and Jim Thomas (R-Plain Twp.) are pleased to announce they will soon introduce a bill to temporarily suspend Ohio’s State Gas Tax for 90 days, providing real relief to Ohioans as fuel costs continue to rise. 

This effort would go into effect in October, providing Ohioans with relief leading into the holiday season. Importantly, these savings will be achieved while still providing uninterrupted access to funds for state and local road maintenance and construction. 

“Ohioans need real relief now from the pain they’re feeling at the pump and in their pocketbooks because of the continued rising costs of energy, food and gas,” said Rep. White. “That’s why this spring I signed on quickly as a co-sponsor for House Bill 850, which provides similar tax relief, and have been fighting for it all summer. Unfortunately, legislators cannot control decisions made internationally or in Washington. But what we can control are our state taxes, and we can’t wait any longer– which is why I am sponsoring legislation to suspend the state’s gasoline and diesel fuel taxes for 90 days to bring some needed relief for Ohioans, while using some of the state’s alternative revenue streams to ensure our roadwork continues without interruption.”

“Responsible budgeting by Republican leadership, over the past few years, is allowing the flexibility to provide gas tax relief now.  Farmers, truckers, and small businesses depend on diesel to transport goods.  These costs are then passed on to consumers.  I am proud to help lead this bold effort to benefit Ohioans,” said Rep. Thomas.

This initiative is part of the Ohio House Republicans' broader efforts to lower the cost of everyday life for Ohioans. House Republicans have championed several pieces of legislation aimed at providing relief since the beginning of the General Assembly, including cutting state income taxes with a new flat rate, passing a slate of bills to provide nearly $4 billion in property tax relief over the next three years, expanding access to publicly funded child care and preschool, and reaffirming the summer sales tax holiday.  

The legislation will be introduced in the coming days, with committee activity next week and a Session vote expected September 30.