Bolinsky Calls for Immediate Suspension of Connecticut Gas & Diesel Taxes
Key Takeaways
- Bolinsky urges immediate suspension of Connecticut’s gas and diesel taxes
- Gas tax suspension could save drivers an estimated $2.75 per fill-up
- Diesel tax relief could reduce transportation costs affecting businesses and consumers
NEWTOWN – State Representative Mitch Bolinsky (R-Newtown) is calling on Governor Ned Lamont and legislative Democrats to join Republicans in suspending Connecticut’s gasoline and diesel taxes through the end of the year.
Connecticut drivers currently pay a 25-cent-per-gallon tax on gasoline and a 49.9-cent-per-gallon tax on diesel. Suspending the taxes through December 31 would save an estimated $2.75 per fill-up for gasoline and $5.49 for diesel.
“Don’t let anyone fool you, Connecticut can provide immediate relief. We suspended the gas tax after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, and Newtown families are feeling that same squeeze every time they fill up at the pump,” said Rep. Bolinsky. “My position is clear when state leaders have the ability to provide some breathing room, we should do it.”
Republican leaders are pointing to the Special Transportation Fund’s nearly $650 million in reserves and projected surplus as evidence that the state can afford the temporary suspension.
Suspending the gasoline tax through the end of the year is estimated to cost $92 million, while suspending the diesel tax would cost approximately $36 million.
“This isn’t about some complicated new government program,” Bolinsky said. “It’s about letting Connecticut residents keep more of their own money. We’ve suspended the gas tax before, we know it can be done, and we should be willing to do it again when families are struggling with the cost of just getting through their daily lives.”
Bolinsky also emphasized the importance of suspending the diesel tax, noting that diesel costs affect far more than the person driving a diesel vehicle. Right now, the average price for gallon of diesel in Connecticut is $6.48.
Everything we buy comes on a diesel-powered truck, including food to our grocery stores, supplies to our businesses,” Rep. Bolinsky said. “When the cost of moving those goods goes up, eventually that cost finds its way into the price we pay. Giving our truckers and businesses some relief can help take pressure off everyone.”
Governor Lamont previously raised the possibility of suspending Connecticut’s gas tax, but no action was taken during the 2026 legislative session.
Connecticut’s neighbors to the north, Massachusetts, just had their governor, Maura Healey call for the suspension of their gas tax last week.