News: Press Releases & Statements
Jones Filing Bill to Temporarily Suspend State Gas Tax
09.01.05 | Contact: Meredith Warren, 617-722-2100
BOSTON—In an effort to provide relief from steadily increasing prices at the pump, House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones Jr. is filing legislation today that would give drivers a temporary reprieve from paying the state gas tax.
The tax break would save motorists 21 cents per gallon every time they fill their gas tanks from the time this bill passes until Dec. 31.
“Every day it is becoming more expensive for Massachusetts drivers to commute to work, to travel, and to simply run errands,” said Jones, R-North Reading. “I hope the Legislature will consider easing the burden by granting this small break.”
Suspending the state gas tax for three months would cost Massachusetts about $175 million in lost revenue. However, accounts normally funded by the gas tax, including the state highway fund, would be held harmless up to $175 million through a supplemental appropriation by the Legislature.
The gas tax holiday legislation is one piece of a comprehensive plan Jones is crafting to promote energy efficiency in Massachusetts.
Another bill, which will be filed next week, will include plans for more long-term energy savings. Provisions will include elimination of excise tax on clean fuel or hybrid vehicles, a tax credit on purchases of clean fuel vehicles, and a sales tax holiday for energy efficient appliance purchases.
The bill will also include a proposal to help low- and middle-income seniors pay for home heating oil.
###