Story perspectives

Ohio lawmakers approve 90-day gas tax suspension

By Drooid · Oct 1, 2026, 2:50 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Ohio lawmakers passed a 90-day suspension of state gas and diesel taxes.
The emergency clause lets the measure take effect immediately after Governor Mike DeWine signs it.
The $725 million revenue loss will be covered by Ohio’s general fund.
Senate President Rob McColley and Rep. Michele Reynolds say the pause saves drivers $6 per 15-gallon fill-up.
Governor Mike DeWine expressed concern about using transportation dollars but will sign after funding is secured.

History

Historical Context

In October 1973 OAPEC imposed an oil embargo that pushed world prices from $3 to nearly $12 per barrel, a 300% jump. In response, President Richard Nixon signed the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act on November 27, 1973, granting the president authority to allocate petroleum and control prices. Ohio lawmakers in 2024 invoked a similar emergency clause to pause state fuel taxes, echoing the 1973 federal relief.

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Story summary

Ohio lawmakers passed a 90-day suspension of state gas and diesel taxes.
The emergency clause lets the measure take effect immediately after Governor Mike DeWine signs it.
The $725 million revenue loss will be covered by Ohio’s general fund.
Senate President Rob McColley and Rep. Michele Reynolds say the pause saves drivers $6 per 15-gallon fill-up.
Governor Mike DeWine expressed concern about using transportation dollars but will sign after funding is secured.

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