Massachusetts legislature votes against bill suspending gas tax

Massachusetts lawmakers voted against a bill on Thursday that would suspend the state gas tax through Labor Day amid soaring nationwide gas prices.

The bill, introduced by Republican State Sen. Ryan C. Fattman, would halt the state’s 24 cent gas tax until Labor Day, but the legislation failed in a 29-11 vote this week. Democrats largely voted against the bill, saying there are other ways to offer state residents relief at the gas pump.

Democrats argued funding the gas tax suspension would negatively impact the state’s relationships with bond agencies, which supply funding for many important state transportation projects. 

Fattman pointed to other states like Maryland, which suspended its gas tax for 30 days this month, and California governor Gavin Newsom’s announcement of $400 gas cards to be distributed to state residents.

However, Massachusetts Democrats do not believe suspending the gas tax is the best way to offer relief to Massachusetts. “When you look at a policy to actually lower the price of gasoline, we’re hearing from experts that this may not be the way to do it,” said Pittsfield Senator Adam Hinds.

Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker seems to have softened his stance against the gas tax recently, after noting the effects it has had in neighboring Connecticut.