White House Considers Suspending Federal Gas Tax Amid Price Surge

Why it matters locally: A federal gas tax suspension would affect Oregon's Highway Trust Fund contributions, potentially impacting state highway maintenance and transportation projects that rely on this federal revenue stream.

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The White House is considering a suspension of the federal gas tax as one potential action to address increasing gas prices, according to Energy Secretary Chris Wright. Wright, speaking on NBC News’ “Meet the Press” Sunday, stated that the administration is “open to all ideas” aimed at lowering the price of gasoline for consumers. The federal gas tax is currently 18.4 cents per gallon for gasoline and 24.4 cents per gallon for diesel fuel. These taxes fund federal highway projects and other transportation initiatives. Suspending the tax would require Congressional action. The potential impact on the Highway Trust Fund, which relies on gas tax revenue, is a key consideration in the debate. Some economists have suggested that suspending the gas tax might not result in significant savings for consumers, as market forces could absorb the difference.