ATSSA State Chapters Oppose Gas Tax Suspension Measures

Three ATSSA chapters sent letters today opposing measures that would suspend state gas taxes during the ongoing crisis.

In Michigan, Pennsylvania and California, governors and state legislators have proposed temporarily halting their state’s gas tax in an attempt to provide relief to consumers at the pump. Unfortunately, it is unlikely that consumers will see a discernible decrease in the price of fuel should these measures become law. Instead, much-needed roadway safety improvement projects would be put at risk. ATSSA remains concerned with any federal or state legislation that would threaten critical infrastructure funding.

This proposal comes simultaneously with proposed federal legislation, the Gas Prices Relief Act which would also threaten the implementation of the historic Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) that provides federal investment in the nation’s infrastructure and was heralded as a significant success for the future of America’s roads. There is clear intent in Congress and at the state level to repair crumbling roads, bridges and other infrastructure. Measures that reduce the gas tax threaten that very goal and may have lasting effects on certainty of critical infrastructure jobs in the state.