Story perspectives

Americans to Pay $80 Billion in New Gas Taxes

3/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) projects Americans will pay more than $80 billion in gas taxes due to new transportation policies of the Trump administration.
The Highway Trust Fund remains insolvent and is projected to hit zero by 2028.
Data show Americans paid $55 million more in taxes than expected, driven by policies discouraging fuel efficiency and promoting driving.
Critics say these changes raise transportation costs and ignore policy problems.

History

Historical Context

The Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 established the Highway Trust Fund, funded by a federal gas tax, to support the Interstate Highway System. By 2028, the fund is projected to be insolvent, reflecting ongoing debates about transportation funding and sustainability. Since 2008, Congress has transferred over $270 billion from the General Fund to maintain the Trust Fund's solvency amid rising financial pressures.

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Story summary

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) projects Americans will pay more than $80 billion in gas taxes due to new transportation policies of the Trump administration.
The Highway Trust Fund remains insolvent and is projected to hit zero by 2028.
Data show Americans paid $55 million more in taxes than expected, driven by policies discouraging fuel efficiency and promoting driving.
Critics say these changes raise transportation costs and ignore policy problems.

1 / 2