economy

As Iran war drives up fuel prices, states are hesitant to suspend gas taxes. Here's why.

April 16, 2026 / 6:00 AM EDT / CBS News

As Iran war drives up fuel prices, states are hesitant to suspend gas taxes. Here's why.

TL;DR

  • High fuel prices are causing financial hardship for many Americans, but states are largely hesitant to suspend gas and diesel taxes.
  • Tax policy experts suggest suspending fuel taxes is an ineffective 'gimmick' that doesn't fully pass savings to consumers and can negatively impact road maintenance funding.
  • Only a few states, including Georgia, Indiana, and Utah, have temporarily suspended or reduced their motor fuel taxes.
  • Gas and diesel taxes are considered user fees essential for funding transportation infrastructure, and their suspension can lead to delayed road improvements and repairs.
  • The federal government is also not considering suspending the federal gas tax, which requires an act of Congress and would impact the Highway Trust Fund.
  • Fuel prices are projected to remain higher than previously anticipated into 2027 due to ongoing geopolitical factors.