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Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley said Monday he plans to introduce legislation to suspend the federal gas tax, aligning with a proposal from President Donald Trump to lower fuel costs for consumers.
The federal gas tax currently adds 18.4 cents per gallon.
“I’m introducing legislation today to suspend the gas tax,” Hawley posted to X.
“President Trump has proposed to suspend the federal gas tax and he’s exactly right,” Hawley also told Fox News Digital in a statement. “American workers and families deserve immediate relief and this legislation will do just that.”
“I think it’s a great idea,” the president said earlier in the day, adding, “Yup, we’re going to take off the gas tax for a period of time, and when gas goes down, we’ll let it phase back in.”
When asked how long the suspension would last, Trump told reporters, “Till it’s appropriate.”
Gas prices have climbed sharply in recent weeks, surpassing $4.50 per gallon, according to AAA data, amid ongoing tensions tied to the conflict involving Iran. Suspending the tax would require congressional approval and is estimated to cost the federal government about $500 million per week in lost revenue.
Hawley has previously supported making a gas tax holiday permanent, arguing in past remarks that it could be offset through tariffs on foreign energy-related imports.
Other lawmakers are also signaling support. Florida Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna said she plans to introduce similar legislation following President Trump’s comments.
The administration has taken additional steps to address rising prices, including releasing oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and adjusting sanctions policies on certain shipments. Officials are also working with international partners to stabilize shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global energy supplies.
The spike in fuel prices has raised political concerns ahead of the midterm elections, with some Republicans warning it could impact voter support.