Gas Tax Suspension Debate: Pros, Cons, and Smart Driving Tips

0:00It's March 30. You're listening to Birmingham News today, AI-powered local news. I'm Cory with the story. Gas prices are climbing toward $4 a gallon nationwide thanks to the war in Iran, and now some lawmakers want to hit pause on the federal. Gas tax to ease the pain. That tax sits at 18.4 cents per gallon for gasoline and 24.4 cents for diesel, pulling in over 23 billion. As a year for highways and transit, Congress would need to greenlight any suspension since the president can do it solo. With Republicans running both the House and Senate, these bills probably won't move without a nod from Trump. Democrats like Senators Richard Blumenthal and Mark Kelly are leading the charge with a proposal to suspended through October 1, aiming to help. Families and businesses stretch thin by higher driving costs. Low and middle income folks feel this the hardest, cutting back on trips or other spending just to fill up. But industry groups warn it could balloon the deficit and hurt road funding, even if

1:01bills promise to cover the gap with general funds. Studies show retailers might not pass every penny of savings to drivers anyway since oil prices and other factors dominate, meanwhile, states are jumping in too. Georgia's governor just signed a 60-day break on their state tax, and prices there drop 15 cents a gallon last week while the nation rose. 10 cents, landing them at $3.60 average. Places like Florida, Connecticut, and others are eyeing similar moves or even rebate checks. In the end, while politicians debate, smart driving can cut your costs right now. Stick to 55 miles per hour for better mileage, ease off the gas pedal, and skip premium if your ride doesn't need it, that keeps more cash in your pocket no matter what.