With fuel prices continuing to rise, local politicians are fighting for relief. West Virginia Senator Stephen Baldwin has started a petition on Change.org to get lawmakers to put gas tax relief on a special session agenda.
The petition’s description says, “High gas prices affect WV more than most places. Because we have to drive so far each day for school, work, and basic activities, these gas prices are putting a huge squeeze on our family finances.” The description continues, “We strongly urge Governor Justice, Senate President Blair and Speaker Hanshaw to put gas tax relief on a special session agenda this summer. Our people need relief right now!”
Senator Baldwin presents two possible ways to give West Virginia residents relief from soaring fuel prices. The first option is to place a pause on the state gas tax. This option would provide an immediate difference at the pump. The second option is a rebate offered to “registered motor vehicle owners.”
In a statement, Senator Baldwin said, “I created it [the petition] because the people in Charleston need to see how gas prices are affecting people’s lives. We can take 36 cents off the price right now and fully pay for it. I’ve been fighting for it for almost three months now, but they keep refusing. They say it’s a drop in the bucket. I disagree. If you save $6 when you fill up, that’s enough savings to afford meat at the grocery store. It’s something we can do as a state, and it’s something we should do. As soon as possible. People are struggling.”
Multiple Democratic leaders spoke on the matter in a recent press release. Senator Richard Lindsay (D-Kanawha) said, “Twenty to forty dollars in relief may not mean much to politicians on the radio calling it ‘a drop in the bucket,’ but to families who are struggling, that could pay for meals or help pay down a utility bill.”
“People’s wallets aren’t playthings for politicians to turn into talking points. This affects real people,” said Delegate Shawn Fluharty (D-Ohio). “What we do in crisis says a lot about who we are, and there is no doubt this is a crisis for many West Virginians. We need action now. We needed action months ago.”
Additionally, Democratic leaders involved in the movement have sent an official letter to Governor Justice requesting a special session to address gas tax relief. According to the letter, communications on this matter began on April 22, 2022. The letter further states, “Legislation prepared two months ago remains available to expedite the process of providing relief.”
At the time of writing, the petition had more than 2,800 signatures, and the number continues to rise. To view or sign the petition, go to www.change.org/p/gas-tax-relief-for-wv or visit Senator Baldwin’s Facebook page for the link.
