Gas Tax Savings and More for CT Residents
Today, the House of Representatives passed an emergency bill, which will ease some of the financial crush on Waterbury residents and working families whose wallets and budgets have taken a hit due to rising gas prices and record-breaking inflation levels.
In an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote, we suspended the 25-cent-per-gallon gas tax April 1 through June 30 in addition to offering free bus rides through June 30 and another sales tax holiday on clothing and shoes under $100 during the week of April 10.
We heard the calls from motorists. We can implement the change without violating any federal or state rules, and without any impact on our Special Transportation Fund, which is currently running a surplus.
It is incumbent upon oil and gas companies to do the right thing by consumers and lower their prices. I hope you join me in immediately calling on them to do so.
We still have to keep an eye on the unscrupulous with respect to price gouging. This bill implements safeguards that will allow the state to go after anyone who does not lower their prices. Also remember, if you see something unusual, say something.
Tips for filing a price-gouging complaint:
- Use the complaint portal HERE
- Identify the specific location of the gas station or business
- Identify the date and time of the offer or sale
- Include documentation, especially receipts
The annual inflation rate topped out at 7.9% in February, which is the highest for any 12-month period since 1982. Today, I supported offering free bus service for our residents who do not drive but need transportation.
The sales tax holiday on clothing and shoes begins April 10 and runs for one week. This week is in addition to the annual tax-free week that occurs in August.
I am committed to even more robust tax relief for you and your family. Please stay tuned as we craft our budget adjustments in the next month or so. This is just a down payment. More tax relief is coming!