Trump proposes temporarily suspending federal gas tax amid soaring fuel prices

US President Donald Trump stated on Monday, May 11, that he plans to seek a suspension of the federal gasoline tax to help Americans cope with rising fuel costs driven by the Iran war.

However, the president does not have the authority to suspend the tax unilaterally, and any such move would require approval from Congress, Caliber.Az reports, citing the AP.

Lawmakers from both parties have previously backed proposals to pause the gas tax, arguing it could ease financial pressure on households and businesses dependent on vehicles for commuting and daily operations.

According to the AAA Motor Club, the national average gasoline price stood at $4.52 per gallon on Monday, around 50% higher than before the conflict with Iran began.

The current federal fuel tax is set at 18.4 cents per gallon for gasoline and 24.4 cents for diesel, excluding additional state-level taxes.

The levy generates more than $23 billion annually for federal highway and public transportation programs.

Asked how long the suspension should last, Trump told reporters at the White House: “Until it’s appropriate,” adding that although the tax makes up only a small share of fuel prices, “it’s still money.”

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov