House Republican Press Release

 

 

 

May 14, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

 

Rep. John Piscopo: Gas tax moratorium should be passed now by legislature

 

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 25 cents per gallon now levied for the summer driving season.

 

“Connecticut taxpayers pay the third highest amount in gas taxes (55 cents) per gallon in the country,” said state Rep. John Piscopo (R-Thomaston). “The people of the 76th District are feeling the pinch of high gas and energy prices now, more than ever. It’s time to take and action and help ease the financial burden of our state’s residents.” 

 

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. John Piscopo represents Burlington, Litchfield, Harwinton, and Thomaston in the General Assembly.