As gas prices continue climbing in Central Florida, the idea of suspending gas taxes may sound like a quick fix for drivers frustrated at the pump. But, data and past history reveal the savings likely would not make much of a difference for consumers.
During this week’s episode, the hosts broke down the growing conversation around a possible federal gas tax suspension after President Donald Trump suggested he was considering the move. However, co-host Christopher Heath pointed out that the president cannot unilaterally suspend the gas tax because only Congress has the authority to levy or remove federal taxes.
The discussion also explored broader questions about presidential authority, with co-host Lauren Melendez noting several recent actions critics argue were taken without congressional approval, including tariffs and military actions abroad.
Even if Congress approved suspending the federal gas tax, the savings would likely be minimal. The federal gas tax currently sits at 18.4 cents per gallon, while Florida’s state gas tax is significantly higher at forty cents.
But the hosts argued that consumers would probably not feel dramatic relief because fluctuating crude oil prices and wholesale fuel costs absorb much of the savings before they ever reach drivers.
“The cost-saving measure is really absorbed at the wholesale level, so by the time it trickles down to you and I, will we really feel it?” Melendez said during the episode.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has already rejected the idea of suspending the state gas tax, calling it ineffective and warning it would reduce funding needed for road construction and infrastructure projects. Recent reports show DeSantis described gas tax holidays as a “gimmick” and said there is no simple fix to lowering fuel prices.
Can’t watch the full episode? Here’s where to find each topic.
00:00 - 11:16 -- FLORIDA’S STATE BUDGET: An update on the major flashpoints for the legislature as they iron out line items before the July 1st deadline.
11:17 - 17:08 -- GAS TAX: A breakdown of state and local gas taxes, how they’re used and why drivers would likely experience minimal financial relief if they were temporarily suspended.
17:09 - 22:42 -- PROPERTY TAX RELIEF: A glimpse into Governor Desantis’ plan to eliminate homestead property taxes, which counties he says contribute to $1 billion in wasted taxpayer dollars and overspending, plus the state’s CFO offers a vague timeline of how the plan would be phased out.
22:43 - 24:43 -- BRIGHTLINE BUDGET WOES: The popular rail line is starting down a multimillion-dollar deficit and at risk of defaulting. How it got to that point and what’s being done.
24:44 - 28:57 -- NEW CONGRESSIONAL MAPS IN COURT: The current legal challenges and lawsuits surrounding the recently passed redistricting plan and who’s behind the push to keep the 2022 maps in place.
The full episode is available now on YouTube and airs again at 2:30 p.m. on News 6 Plus.