Politics
Ohio gas-tax holiday set to begin after DeWine signs 90-day suspension
Ohio’s gasoline and diesel taxes will be suspended through the end of 2026, with drivers in Columbus estimated to save $3 to $7 per fill-up. Lawmakers set aside $725 million in general-fund money to replace revenue normally used for highways and transportation infrastructure.
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Gov. Mike DeWine signed legislation Thursday suspending Ohio’s gasoline and diesel taxes for 90 days, a temporary break lawmakers estimate will save drivers $3 to $7 each time they fill their tanks.
The measure suspends the 38.5-cent-per-gallon gasoline tax and the 47-cent-per-gallon diesel tax through the end of the year. It passed the Ohio Legislature with bipartisan support Wednesday and includes an emergency clause, but gas stations have three days to adjust before the change takes effect. Relief was expected to begin within a week of the signing.
The tax pause shifts the cost of supporting roads and transportation infrastructure away from fuel-tax receipts. To cover the expected shortfall, lawmakers reallocated $725 million from the state’s general fund. DeWine had previously raised concerns about suspending a tax that helps pay for highways and other transportation needs.
The Senate and House returned to session Wednesday after a 19-week break to consider the bill. Democratic lawmakers objected to the process, saying they were not allowed to offer amendments or speak on the Senate floor. Senate President Rob McColley defended the limited debate, saying lawmakers had come back to vote on the gas-tax measure alone.
Columbus gasoline averaged $4.168 per gallon Thursday, according to GasBuddy. The size of any savings at the pump will depend on how much of the tax reduction is reflected in posted prices.