Illinois lawmakers introduced a proposal on April 10 to suspend the state gas sales tax from July 1 through December 31, 2026. The measure, House Bill 5738, aims to provide financial relief to families facing rising fuel costs.
The bill seeks to address concerns about the impact of increasing expenses on working families across Illinois. Supporters say that by suspending the tax for half a year, residents would see direct savings at the pump during a period of economic strain.
“This week, our caucus introduced a measure to give Illinois families relief at the gas pump. HB 5738 would suspend the state gas sales tax from July 1 through December 31, 2026, helping ease the burden of rising costs,” said Illinois State Representative Travis Weaver.
Weaver also called for bipartisan support and urged action on the legislation. “If Democrats are serious about delivering real relief for working families, this bill should be at the top of the list. In addition, IDOT has $6.7B in cash, and if the state isn’t in a position to more effectively put money into roads, that money needs to be put back into taxpayers’ pockets,” Weaver said.
Weaver was elected as a Republican representative in Illinois’ State House in 2023 and represents the state’s 93rd House District after replacing Norine Hammond according to Ballotpedia.
The proposal comes amid ongoing discussions about how best to manage surplus funds within state agencies such as IDOT and whether those resources should be redirected toward public infrastructure or returned directly to taxpayers.
