Recently, states around the nation have been cutting their “gas tax” in an effort to alleviate the burden on citizens due to the conflicts in the middle east driving up oil prices.
Currently, Wisconsin has a gas tax of 30.9 cents per gallon. Wisconsin law prohibits the governor from making a unilateral move to reduce or eliminate the tax for a “holiday.” Unfortunately, no lawmakers have introduced anything like this and it seems to be unlikely to happen in 2026.
Governor Evers was asked about this type of relief earlier this month. Evers was an opponent of such legislation stating, “where we are now is a good place.” This comment came during a time when the legislature was trying to pass a $1.8 billion relief and school funding bill that was voted down 18-15 in the Senate.
On Monday, in a press conference, President Trump rebuffed his strong stance on Iran. Stating he is “not open to concessions” and warns Iran that “time is running out to make a deal.”
Gas prices have been steadily rising since the conflict with Iran surged and disruptions with the strait of Hormuz have persisted. In response, the Trump administration has reportedly been open to temporarily lifting the federal gasoline tax.
The current tax rate for the federal government is around 18.4 cents/gallon. The tax is used to help fund federal highway infrastructure programs and has not been changed since 1993.
Trump’s energy secretary, Chris Wright, said “We are open to all ideas,” “All ideas to lower prices for American consumers and American businesses.” Wright framed his comments as a part of a larger effort to try and reduce the rising energy costs across the nation.
Wright also mentioned that they are releasing oil from the strategic reserves, along with 30 other countries. They also revised the EPA’s summer gasoline blend making it easier for gasoline producers to make oil faster and cheaper.
