Virginia Republicans Urge Governor to Suspend Fuel Taxes

Virginia Republican leaders are urging Governor Abigail Spanberger to convene a special session to suspend state gasoline and diesel taxes for 90 days. The proposal aims to provide immediate relief to families, farmers, and trucking companies facing skyrocketing fuel prices caused by disruptions from the war with Iran.

House Minority Leader Terry Kilgore and Delegates Wendell Walker and Scott Wyatt argue that the state's stronger-than-expected revenues can absorb the estimated $410 million cost of the tax holiday. U.S. Rep. John McGuire supported the call for relief while using the occasion to defend the energy policies of President Donald Trump and criticize Democratic climate policies ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.

A spokesperson for Governor Spanberger stated that she is currently assessing options to address costs created by the conflict. Similar fuel-tax relief measures have recently been implemented or considered in neighboring Georgia and North Carolina.