OKLAHOMA CITY — Gov. Kevin Stitt on Monday signed legislation ensuring Oklahoma motorists won’t see an automatic state fuel tax increase if the federal government moves forward with a proposed gas tax suspension.
House Bill 1370 repeals a provision in Oklahoma law requiring the state to raise gasoline and diesel taxes if the federal government reduces or eliminates its own fuel tax — a little-known trigger lawmakers say would have negated potential savings at the pump.
The issue emerged during discussions with the Oklahoma Tax Commission after Donald Trump recently called on Congress to suspend the federal gas tax.
“In reviewing state law, we found a provision that would have automatically increased Oklahoma’s fuel tax,” said state Sen. Grant Green. “High gas prices are hitting Oklahoma families and small businesses hard. This ensures state law doesn’t get in the way of Oklahomans saving money.”
Senate Appropriations Chairman Chuck Hall said rising fuel costs remain a top concern statewide.
“Oklahomans are feeling pain at the pump every time they gas up,” Hall said. “This legislation ensures they will actually benefit if a federal gas tax suspension is enacted.”
The Senate approved the measure 41-7 before returning it to the House, where it passed 89-1.
Stitt praised lawmakers for acting quickly.
“Should President Trump move to suspend the federal gas tax, Oklahomans will now truly benefit from this relief due to rapid action taken today at the Capitol,” Stitt said.
The new law eliminates language directing Oklahoma to increase fuel taxes in response to any reduction or repeal of the federal excise tax.
