Ohio Legislators Pass 90-Day Gas Tax Suspension

The Ohio House and Senate passed emergency legislation to suspend the state's gas tax for 90 days to provide relief from high fuel costs. The measure suspends a 38.5-cent tax on gasoline and a 47-cent tax on diesel, with the tax holiday taking effect immediately upon the governor's signature.

To prevent the depletion of infrastructure and highway funds, the state will use approximately $725 million to $726 million from a surplus in the General Revenue Fund to cover the losses. Mike DeWine, the Governor of Ohio, initially opposed the relief due to concerns over road funding but now supports the measure because it utilizes the general fund.

While the bill passed with overwhelming support, some Democrats criticized the timing during an election year. State Senator Bill DeMora characterized the tax holiday as a political gimmick, and House Minority Leader Dani Isaacsohn suggested the move was politically motivated, though she still voted for the relief. Supporters, including State Representative Andrea White, argued that the rising fuel prices impact consumers and critical industries including farming, schooling, and trucking.