House Republican Press Release

May 14, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Now is the time to implement gas tax moratorium

In the face of another looming spike in gasoline prices, House Republicans today called for a gas tax moratorium from Memorial Day to Labor Day for the summer peak driving season to give motorists relief at the pumps. Given the new higher revenue projections released last week and the pain drivers continue to feel from the ever-increasing gas prices, Connecticut should stop collecting the current 25 cents per gallon tax for the summer driving season.

“Connecticut consumers are being pushed to the brink with ever-increasing gasoline and energy prices. This proposal to suspend the gasoline tax from Memorial Day to Labor Day will help our residents and families during the peak travel months. This is a proposal that should garner wide bi-partisan support,” said state Rep. Ruth Fahrbach (R-Windsor). 

It is estimated that the tax cuts would save drivers about $40 million per month, or a little more than $120 million for the duration of the summer driving period. Last week, the non-partisan Office of Fiscal Analysis revised revenue projections to show that, Connecticut now has a surplus this year of $846 million which would easily cover the lost revenue. The legislature has until June 6 to finalize the two-year budget and the timing of this proposal is ideal.

Connecticut’s combined state and federal taxes of more than 55 cents per gallon are third highest in the country behind only California and New York. The gas tax moratorium would not divert any funds from any transportation program.

“Connecticut motorists pay some of the highest gas prices in the country and at a time when we can afford to offer some relief, we need to do it. We have failed to enact any meaningful energy plan as the Democrats promised more than a year ago. We should stand up and show leadership and deliver for Connecticut drivers,’’ House Republican Leader Cafero said. “The legislature is in session right now and we can take immediate action to benefit anyone who drives and is fed up with gas prices. We can debate forever the larger energy issues and still not come up with a plan. We’ve missed opportunities to do anything about the heating season crisis, but we should act on this plan right now.”

Rep. Ruth Fahrbach (R-Windsor) represents East Granby, Suffield and Windsor in the General Assembly.