In a new wave of legislation, Wisconsin lawmakers introduced a bill that would require gas pumps to display how much of the price per gallon comes from taxes.
This part of a push for greater transparency around fuel costs. The proposal also comes as part of a broader package also including a proposed tax credit for fertility treatments such as IVF.
Under the gas-pump transparency bill, when a state or local inspector reviews a gas pump, they would place a sticker on the pump showing the amount of state and federal taxes baked into the sticker price. Wisconsin currently charges about 32.9 cents per gallon in state gas tax, on top of the federal tax of 18.4 cents.
The bill was introduced by nine sponsors, including eight republicans, including City of Waukesha mayoral candidate, Scott Allen. (RELATED: Federal Agents Bust CDL Cheating Ring Operating Inside Wisconsin DMV Offices)
Republicans argue that the change would fill yet another gap in consumer information. Drivers typically have no idea how much of what they pay at the pump goes to government taxes, because those costs are simply folded into the total price, unlike sales tax on retail purchases, which is itemized at checkout.
Still, public opinion on fuel taxes has grown more favorable when proposals tie increases to infrastructure maintenance or broader transportation funding needs. A 2024 national survey found that 74% of respondents supported raising the federal gas tax by ten cents per gallon, provided the proceeds went exclusively to upkeep and safety of roads and bridges.
For many Wisconsinites, seeing the tax component itemized at the pump could provide much-needed clarity. It also might spark renewed debate over how gas-tax revenues are collected, spent, and adjusted.
The gas-pump transparency bill is now pending in the state legislature, along with a companion proposal that would offer a tax credit for certain fertility treatments. (RELATED: Letter Exposes Push to Put Activist Judge on Wisconsin Bench)
