Governor Maura Healey Proposes Two-Month Massachusetts Gas Tax Suspension

Governor Maura Healey announced on Tuesday that she is filing legislation to suspend the Massachusetts state gas and diesel tax for two months. The proposal aims to provide approximately $120 million in relief to drivers, truckers, and rideshare workers by cutting prices by 24 cents per gallon. To fund the measure, Healey intends to use unbudgeted surplus revenue from the state's surtax on incomes exceeding $1 million. The plan requires gas stations to pass the full savings directly to consumers.

The move comes as regular gas prices in Massachusetts hit a seasonal average of $4.40 per gallon, more than $1 higher than the previous year, while diesel prices reached all-time highs. Healey attributed the volatility to the ongoing U.S. war in Iran, accusing President Donald Trump of driving up costs and putting soldiers in harm's way.

The proposal has sparked political conflict. Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike Minogue criticized the two-month duration as a political maneuver to push the issue past the election, arguing that Healey is reacting to a similar proposal he made on September 10. Minogue advocates for a permanent policy that triggers a tax holiday whenever prices exceed $4 per gallon.

Legislative response is divided. House Speaker Ron Mariano called the suspension fiscally irresponsible, stating it would limit the state's ability to fund critical infrastructure projects. Senate President Karen Spilka pledged to review the legislation, which now awaits approval from the Massachusetts Legislature.