Washington, D.C. – Congressman Jeff Van Drew announced Tuesday that he is introducing legislation to suspend the federal gas tax for 18 months in an effort to lower fuel costs for American families facing high prices at the pump amid the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Under the proposal, the current federal fuel taxes would be temporarily eliminated, including the 18.3-cent-per-gallon tax on gasoline, the 24.3-cent-per-gallon tax on diesel fuel and kerosene, and the 19.3-cent-per-gallon tax on aviation gasoline. The legislation would also gradually phase the taxes back in after the 18-month suspension period instead of reinstating them all at once.
“Americans are paying too much for gas right now, and the federal government can help relieve some of that pressure,” Van Drew said. “This would put money back into people’s pockets immediately.”
Van Drew argued that the temporary tax suspension would especially help commuters, working families, and others who rely heavily on their vehicles every day. He said the savings from avoiding federal fuel taxes would add up quickly for drivers already dealing with inflation and rising household costs.
The South Jersey Republican also turned his attention to New Jersey’s state gas tax, which remains among the highest in the nation. Van Drew called on Governor Mikie Sherrill and state leaders to adopt a similar temporary suspension at the state level.
“New Jersey drivers are paying roughly 49 cents per gallon in state gas taxes on top of everything else,” Van Drew said. “Working families need real relief, and they need it now.”
The proposal is expected to become part of the broader debate in Washington over inflation, energy prices, and tax relief measures heading into the summer travel season.
