Politics
Senate Democrats call for suspension of Florida’s motor fuel taxes
Data from AAA show prices skyrocketed on gasoline after the U.S. bombed Iran.
Senate Democrats are calling for the suspension of Florida’s motor fuel taxes.
“In the last 60 days, we haven’t done anything to address Florida’s affordability crisis,” said Senate Democratic Leader Lori Berman.
“We’re sitting on billions of dollars in reserves; the least we can do for Floridians during this time of economic crisis and war is provide relief at the gas pumps. I’m proud to join my colleagues in the Florida Senate Democratic Caucus in this latest effort to make Florida more affordable.”
The call comes less than 48 hours from the close of the Regular Session.
The Democratic caucus said lawmakers have the power to provide temporary relief in this year’s tax package.
Senators pointed at data from AAA showing gas prices in Florida leapt 47.7 cents a gallon for regular unleaded. The surge followed the U.S. bombing Iran and killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, actions that have sent oil prices per barrel as high as $101.
On top of the price of gas, Florida’s motor tax adds 25.3 cents per gallon to every fuel purchase. Berman said temporarily suspending those taxes could blunt the effect of soaring oil prices due to the war in Iran.
The last-minute call from the Democrats puts the minority caucus in an unusual position of going hawkish on tax cuts against Republicans, who have cut taxes in recent years but have often focused on business taxes. For example, the Legislature voted last year to completely eliminate Florida’s business rent tax. It’s unclear whether this latest call will gain momentum.
While the Legislative Session is scheduled to end Friday, disagreement between the House and Senate on fundamental budget issues will push the Legislature into overtime for the second year in a row.
Some of the disagreements have involved how to handle property taxes statewide, which has been a focus of Gov. Ron DeSantis.
