Democratic gubernatorial nominee Amy Acton is calling for an emergency suspension of Ohio’s gas tax as drivers across the state face sharply higher fuel prices.
“I am calling for an emergency gas tax holiday to offer Ohio’s working families some relief,” Acton said in a statement released Sunday.
AAA reported Monday that regular gasoline was averaging $4.52 per gallon across Ohio, while diesel had climbed to $6.77 — the highest statewide diesel average AAA has recorded.
Those prices are being felt in Northwest Ohio as well. AAA’s Ohio data showed the Toledo-area average at about $4.52 for regular gasoline and $6.76 for diesel on Monday.
A year ago, Ohio’s statewide averages were about $3.04 for regular gasoline and $3.70 for diesel, according to AAA.
“Ohioans are hurting,” Acton said. “I’m hearing stories of folks who are unable to get to work or go to the doctor because they can’t afford to fill up their tank.”
Ohio charges 38.5 cents per gallon
Ohio currently imposes a state tax of 38.5 cents on every gallon of gasoline and 47 cents on diesel and most other motor fuels, according to state law.
That means a 15-gallon gasoline purchase includes $5.78 in Ohio gasoline taxes before accounting for the separate federal gas tax.
The current state rates date to 2019, when Gov. Mike DeWine signed House Bill 62. The transportation budget increased Ohio’s gasoline tax by 10.5 cents per gallon and its diesel tax by 19 cents.
The additional revenue was projected at the time to generate roughly $865 million annually for state and local transportation infrastructure, according to the Ohio Legislative Service Commission.
State law dedicates motor-fuel tax revenue to roads, bridges and related transportation expenses.
Acton said Ohio could provide temporary relief “without compromising on investing in our infrastructure.”
Fuel prices have climbed rapidly
The proposal comes as Ohio fuel prices have risen rapidly in recent weeks amid turmoil in global oil markets and regional refinery issues.
AAA’s statewide gasoline average stood at $4.16 just one week ago before climbing to about $4.52 Monday. Diesel rose from about $6.11 to $6.77 over the same period.
Prices are also moving in the opposite direction from their usual seasonal pattern. Gasoline demand typically falls and prices ease after the summer driving season, but international oil-market disruptions have kept upward pressure on fuel costs.
The gas tax proposal adds another piece to Acton’s broader campaign focus on household expenses. As TiffinOhio.net previously reported, Acton has proposed refundable tax credits and other measures as part of an affordability agenda aimed at working Ohio households.
Acton faces Republican Vivek Ramaswamy in the Nov. 3 election for governor.
