From The Boston Globe · · 1m 40s
Massachusetts House Rejects Gas Tax Suspension Plan
Massachusetts House Democrats reject Healey’s gas tax suspension proposal ahead of Election Day.
In brief
Massachusetts House Democrats reject Healey’s gas tax suspension proposal ahead of Election Day. Massachusetts House Democrats rejected Governor Healey’s plan to temporarily suspend the state gas tax as Election Day approaches. Originally reported by The Boston Globe.
House Rejects Gas Tax Plan
Massachusetts House leaders rejected Governor Maura Healey’s proposal to temporarily suspend the state’s 24-cent-per-gallon gas tax.
Election Day Setback
The move is a setback for Healey two weeks before Election Day as she campaigns for a second term against Republican Michael Minogue.
Healey’s Rationale
Healey argued a two-month gas tax suspension would provide relief amid rising gas prices driven by the war in Iran.
Gas Prices in MA
A gallon of regular gas cost $4.26 in Massachusetts as of Tuesday, more than a dollar higher than this time last year.
Michlewitz’s Skepticism
State Representative Aaron Michlewitz called the policy a gimmick that won’t provide real savings for struggling families.
Healey’s Relief Claim
Jacqueline Manning, Healey’s spokesperson, said the suspension would provide badly needed relief while protecting transportation funding.
Minogue’s Criticism
Republican Michael Minogue called Healey’s push a political stunt that harms hard-working Massachusetts families.
Gas Tax Suspension Details
Minogue proposed suspending the tax whenever prices topped $4 a gallon, with plans to eventually eliminate it.
Healey’s Past Opposition
Healey previously opposed the gas tax suspension idea and did not support a Republican-backed effort during her 2022 campaign.
Gas Price Discrepancy
Michlewitz noted his gas station charges $5.47 a gallon, $1 to $1.50 over other stations in Boston.
The essence
Massachusetts House Democrats rejected Governor Healey’s plan to temporarily suspend the state gas tax as Election Day approaches.
