Gas prices are soaring in our state due to Trump’s tariffs and the war in Iran. According to the AAA, the average gas price for North Carolina is $3.43. As a result, North Carolina’s 41-cent gas tax has officially been suspended as of October 10th after Gov. Josh Stein signed House Bill 3 into law to lower costs for North Carolinians.
The gas tax will be suspended until November 30th, and Attorney General Jeff Jackson is ensuring that gas stations pass along savings from the suspension (specifically, 30-35 cents) to North Carolinians.
“If gas stations see their costs drop by 41 cents per gallon but don’t pass that along to drivers, that’s a massive windfall for these companies instead of relief for families, my job is to make sure the savings reach the families,” said Attorney General Jeff Jackson.
AG Jeff Jackson has sent letters to gas retailers and distributors to notify them that the law requires them to pass their tax savings to consumers. By now, prices are expected to be lower before receiving new deliveries of gas. The law also accounts for the fuel that gas stations are selling and have already paid the tax on.
Additionally, AG Jeff Jackson has launched N.C. Fuel Check, an initiative that lets North Carolinians report gas stations that might be breaking the law. To report gas stations that you believe are not complying with the law, visit here. You can also report by calling 1-877-5-NO-SCAM. Reports should include the following:
- Station’s name and address.
- Date and time of the visit.
- Price per gallon.
- Grade of the fuel at the station.
- A photo of the price sign and the receipt.
- A detailed explanation of why you believe the savings weren’t passed on.
- Prices at nearby stations, if you noticed them.
- Additional supporting documentation.
“Rising grocery, utility, and gas prices are making the costs too high for people across our state. I am signing this bill to keep more money in people’s wallets, but this temporary relief is just one step. I remain committed to continuing to work with anyone who wants to make everyday living more affordable all year long – not just during election season,” said Governor Josh Stein.
The gas tax suspension will ultimately cost the state $350 million in tax revenue that funds the NC Department of Transportation, and the state will tap into reserves for that loss.
“This gas tax suspension is going to cost the state a lot of money. It’s costing us several hundred million dollars to do this, we want to make sure that that money doesn’t end up as windfall profits to gas stations, that it goes where it’s intended, which is pocketbooks for families,” said AG Jeff Jackson.
AG Jeff Jackson and Governor Josh Stein are addressing a facet of the rising cost of living in our state by holding gas retailers and distributors accountable to ensure that North Carolinians save money at the pump.
