South Carolina State Senator Russell Ott (D-Calhoun) announced plans to file legislation that would temporarily suspend the state’s gas tax for 30 days.
“South Carolina families and businesses are struggling with gas prices that have increased nearly a dollar per gallon in just three weeks during the ongoing war in Iran,” Ott said. “By providing a 30-day suspension of the state’s gas tax, we can play a small part in offering relief for businesses and families.”
The proposed legislation would suspend South Carolina’s 28-cent-per-gallon gas tax for 30 days and would automatically renew for an additional 30-day period if gas prices remain elevated.
“The administration has assured us the pain at the pump will be short-lived, and I hope that’s true. But there are no guarantees, and prices continue to climb with no end in sight,” Ott said. “We need to do what we can, when we can.”
Ott acknowledged the measure would not fully offset rising fuel costs but said it could provide meaningful, short-term relief.
“While this will not fully counter the effects of rising gas prices, it may be the difference that allows businesses to stay open and households to stay afloat,” he said.
“In the days and weeks ahead, we will continue to look for additional solutions to ease the burden of rising costs. We pray for the safety of our troops, strength for their families, and a swift conclusion to this war,” Ott added.
