Trump Proposes Suspending Federal Gas Tax as Lawmakers Weigh Relief Options
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President Trump has proposed suspending the federal gasoline tax to provide relief from high fuel prices, which have risen by more than 50% since the war in Iran began. The administration says it is 'open to all ideas,' but any suspension requires an act of Congress, where lawmakers from both parties are proposing competing measures. The federal tax is 18.4 cents per gallon for gasoline and 24.4 cents for diesel, funding the Highway Trust Fund for roads and bridges.
Facts First
- President Trump has proposed suspending the federal gas tax to help Americans with fuel prices that have risen from under $3 to $4.52 per gallon since the war.
- Any suspension requires Congressional approval, and lawmakers from both parties have introduced or promised legislation for a temporary tax holiday.
- The administration has taken other steps to ease prices, including releasing oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and waiving the Jones Act for fuel shipments.
- Democratic lawmakers have proposed alternative measures, including a 100% windfall tax on oil company profits above $75 per barrel and a ban on U.S. oil exports.
- Polling indicates high gas prices are straining budgets for eight in ten Americans, with 63% blaming Trump 'a great deal' or 'a good amount' for the increase.
What Happened
President Trump stated on Monday, May 11, 2026, that he will move to suspend the federal tax on gasoline to assist Americans with rising fuel prices caused by the war in Iran. The war, now in its 11th week, began with U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran on Feb. 28. Tehran responded by blocking the Strait of Hormuz, through which about one-fifth of the world's crude oil typically travels, stalling oil tankers and throttling supply. According to AAA, the average U.S. price for regular gas has increased by more than 50 percent. Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated the administration is 'open to all ideas' to lower costs, including a gas tax suspension.
Why this Matters to You
If you drive, you are likely feeling the strain of gas prices that have jumped over $1.50 per gallon in recent months. An NPR/PBS News/Marist poll found eight in ten Americans say these prices are straining their budgets. A full suspension of the federal gasoline tax could reduce your cost at the pump by 18.4 cents per gallon, though a Bipartisan Policy Center estimate suggests the total reduction might be 10 to 16 cents. The tax revenue funds the Highway Trust Fund, so a suspension could lead to funding gaps for infrastructure projects unless Congress finds other money to cover the loss. The administration's other moves, like releasing oil from national reserves, are intended to increase supply and may help moderate prices over time.
What's Next
The proposal moves to Congress, where suspension requires an act of law. Republican Senator Josh Hawley and Democratic Senator Mark Kelly have promised or sponsored legislation for a temporary suspension. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has stated he has not been a fan of the idea but will listen to colleagues. Lawmakers will need to resolve how to offset the lost revenue for the Highway Trust Fund; Senator Kelly's plan involves diverting other monies. Meanwhile, Democratic Representatives Brad Sherman and Ro Khanna are pushing alternative measures like a windfall profits tax on oil companies and a ban on U.S. oil exports, though the Trump administration has ruled out an export moratorium. The proposed windfall tax would remain in effect for the duration of the war in Iran or until oil prices drop below $75 per barrel, with revenue redistributed to consumers as a tax rebate.