economy
Trump wants to suspend the federal gas tax. How much would that help drivers?
Updated on: May 11, 2026 / 7:37 PM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- High gasoline prices have surged roughly $1.54 since late February, reaching an average of $4.52 per gallon nationwide.
- Experts suggest suspending the federal gas tax (18.4 cents/gallon for gas, 24.4 cents/gallon for diesel) would offer limited relief due to the scale of recent price hikes.
- A federal gas tax suspension could return prices to early May levels, but fuel costs would still be significantly higher than before the recent conflict.
- Suspending the federal tax would require congressional approval, which is unlikely given partisan divisions and upcoming elections.
- The proposal could drain the Highway Trust Fund, costing the government an estimated $2.1 billion per month.
- Some states have already waived their local fuel taxes, providing more substantial savings than a federal waiver.
- Experts warn that tax suspensions might worsen market imbalances, increase demand, and discourage fuel conservation.
- Senator Josh Hawley plans to introduce legislation to suspend the federal gas tax.