Woonsocket Radio News Room

 

Rep. McLaughlin legislation would temporarily waive Rhode Island’s gasoline tax

 

STATE HOUSE — Rep. James N. McLaughlin (D-Dist. 57, Cumberland, Central Falls) has introduced legislation (2022-H 8006) that would impose a moratorium on the payment of the fuel tax until Dec. 31, 2022.

“While the people of Rhode Island are trying to get back on a normal economic footing in the wake of this pandemic, inflation has been oppressive,” said Representative McLaughlin. “To add to that burden, the war in Ukraine has caused a chain reaction that has led to exorbitant prices at the gas pump. This temporary moratorium on the fuel tax would go a long way to help Rhode Islanders who are struggling to make ends meet.”

Gasoline in Rhode Island this week averaged at $4.23 per gallon, up from $3.55 this time last month, according to the American Automobile Association.

The legislation, which is cosponsored by Representatives Robert E. Craven (D-Dist. 32, North Kingstown), Samuel A. Azzinaro (D-Dist. 37, Westerly), Raymond A. Hull (D-Dist. 6 Providence, North Providence), Deborah A. Fellela (D-Dist. 43, Johnston), Arthur J. Corvese (D-Dist. 55, North Providence), David A. Bennett (D-Dist. 20, Warwick, Cranston), Camille F.J. Vella-Wilkinson (D-Dist. 21, Warwick), Joseph M. McNamara (D-Dist. 19, Warwick, Cranston) and Stephen M. Casey (D-Dist. 50, Woonsocket), has been referred to the House Finance Committee.

 

 

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