Gov. Mike Dunleavy has proposed suspending the state’s motor fuel taxes until June 2023.
Dunleavy joined a growing number of governors and legislators who’ve supported a break in their state’s fuel taxes.
In Alaska, the tax on gasoline is 8 cents per gallon.
Dunleavy said the suspension would help Alaskans affected by rising fuel prices and inflation.
Dunleavy offered the proposal as an amendment to a bill that’s been advancing in the Legislature. The current version of the bill would increase a surcharge on refined fuel by just over one half of 1 cent per gallon. The money would be used to fund the state Division of Spill Prevention and Response.
Bill sponsor Rep. Andy Josephson, D-Anchorage, said he would support the amendment to provide short-term relief. Josephson is an Anchorage Democrat.
Democratic candidate for governor Les Gara proposed suspending the tax earlier this week.