New York Lawmakers Ask Governor to Suspend Gas Tax

A Dutchess County lawmaker is calling on New York Governor Kathy Hochul to take action as gas prices continue to climb across the state.

Over the last month or so, we have all begun to feel more pain at gas pumps as prices have skyrocketed across New York. Since the beginning of March, a gallon of gas has gone up almost a dollar, and it doesn't appear that it's stopping or slowing down anytime soon.

Gas Prices Skyrocket in New York

At most Hudson Valley gas stations, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3.85 to $3.99 per gallon, compared to under $3 just a few weeks ago. The rise in prices has some Hudson Valley lawmakers asking Governor Hochul to temporarily remove the state gas tax in hopes of bringing prices down a bit.

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Dutchess County Assemblyman Anil Beephan recently announced on social media that his office has sent a letter to Governor Hochul, urging her to take immediate action to help New Yorkers dealing with rising fuel costs.

Could New York Suspend the Gas Tax?

In the letter, Beephan is asking the state to temporarily suspend the gas tax.

“I strongly encourage you to temporarily suspend the state tax on gasoline,” he said. “Doing so would offer direct, immediate financial relief to residents who rely on their vehicles for work, childcare, medical appointments, and daily life.”

Right now, New Yorkers pay a little over 20 cents per gallon in state taxes. Removing that tax, even temporarily, could provide some short-term relief and help ease the strain on household budgets.

Dutchess County, NY: Removing Gas Tax?

As of now, it’s unclear if Governor Hochul will consider the proposal or not. In the meantime, there is another idea being discussed locally as some Dutchess County lawmakers are proposing a "gas tax holiday" that would remove the county's 3.75% sales tax only on the cost of gas and diesel up to three dollars per gallon.

If approved, it would go into effect this June and remain in place through the end of the year.