State Rep. Bronna Kahle of Adrian today approved a plan to temporarily suspend the state’s tax on gasoline and diesel fuels to provide Michigan drivers immediate financial relief. The Legislature also approved a resolution calling on the governor to support energy independence, which includes ending her opposition to the Great Lakes tunnel project.

Gov. Whitmer indicated her support for legislation suspending the federal gas tax in a letter to Congress on Tuesday, but Kahle said the Legislature’s approach to addressing rising inflation at the gas pump would provide more savings to more people.

“It’s time to put forth real solutions, not just empty words. Asking the federal government to remove the federal gas tax of just 18 cents a gallon makes little sense when we can simply take practical action and fix it ourselves at the state level – especially given the significant revenue surplus at our disposal,” Kahle said. “Everyone is being hit hard by soaring inflation and rising prices at the pump. I’m pleased to support this real action today that will actually help people.”

The House bill approved today suspends the state’s gas and diesel taxes, which are among the highest in the nation. The gas tax pause would remove Michigan’s 27 cents per gallon fuel tax for the next six months, until the end of the fiscal year. Drivers across the state stand to save approximately $750 million over that time, much more than they would save from a pause in the smaller federal fuel tax. Giving drivers a break from both fuel taxes would amount to 45 cents per gallon savings. The Senate will vote on the bill next week, sending the plan to the governor’s desk.

The House approved their gas tax suspension plan on the same day the governor vetoed its $2.5 billion tax cut plan that included a reduction in the income tax, a $500 child tax credit and increased deductions for seniors.

“I hear from people across Lenawee County every day about how this historic inflation is affecting their families,” Kahle said. “There is a lot of fear and uncertainty. Costs are soaring. We’re seeing it every time we go to the gas pump, grocery store or pharmacy. Make no mistake, inflated costs serve as a de facto tax increase on hard-working residents and seniors. The state must take swift, smart action to bring relief and today I did just that.”

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