HARRISBURG, Pa. – State Sen. Lisa M. Boscola (D-Lehigh/Northampton) plans to introduce bills that would temporarily suspend Pennsylvania’s gasoline and diesel taxes for 60 days.
In a news release Tuesday, Boscola’s office said the suspension would provide relief for consumers and businesses facing rising fuel costs amid instability in global oil markets.
The state gasoline tax is 57.6 cents per gallon, while the diesel tax is approximately 74 cents per gallon, Boscola’s office said.
“I know we find ourselves going to Jersey or something to get it cheaper. Anything helps today so that would be wonderful,” said one driver, Marion Chiodo.
Boscola’s office said the legislation would also authorize bonding to replace any short-term loss to the Motor License Fund.
“This ensures we can provide relief at the pump without disrupting funding for State Police or critical road and bridge projects,” Boscola’s office said in its news release.
“Hopefully they’ll be coming down soon. I think it’s temporary. It’s getting a little hard at this point in time. I’m hoping for better,” said Chiodo.
Boscola represents the 18th Senate District, which includes parts of Lehigh and Northampton counties.
“Pennsylvania drivers are already starting to see prices at the pump climb as global oil markets react to instability in the Middle East,” Boscola said.
“At a time when families and businesses are already facing rising costs, we should use every tool available to provide some short-term relief.”
“I don’t drive a lot so it’s not effecting me as much,” said another driver, Sean Coffey.
Coffey did say he feels bad for those who commute. “It just seems like everyday something else goes up in price,” he said.