Ohio Implements 90-Day Gas and Diesel Tax Holiday

Ohio will implement a 90-day suspension of its 38.5 cent per gallon tax on gasoline and diesel starting Sunday. The measure is expected to provide between $725 million and $726 million in cost relief for drivers. Because the Ohio Department of Transportation had already allocated its funds, the state's general revenue fund will cover the lost revenue typically used for road construction and repair.

Vivek Ramaswamy, the Republican candidate for governor, initiated the plan following a similar proposal from Democratic candidate Amy Acton. The legislative process faced friction in the Statehouse when Democratic lawmakers, including Senator Casey Weinstein, attempted to include tax relief for electric vehicle and hybrid owners. These drivers currently pay higher registration fees to compensate for their lack of gas tax contributions.

Senate President Rob McColley blocked the proposed amendment using a procedural motion to end all debate and amendments. McColley defended the action as a necessary step to ensure the relief package passed without being jeopardized by what he termed Democratic theatrics.