September 28, 2023
The Honorable Gavin Newsom
Governor
1021 O Street
Sacramento CA, 95814
Dear Governor Newsom,
Gas prices are once again soaring, and Californians are paying $2 more per gallon than the rest of the country. Drivers are spending more than $100 each month just on gas. This elevated energy cost cuts into families’ already strained budgets.
We ask you to call a special session of the Legislature to temporarily suspend the state’s gas tax. Californians are paying $0.58 per gallon to the state. Immediate relief is needed.
California is an energy island with isolated resources which makes our state reliant on foreign imports if more domestic production is not allowed.
In December 2022, you convened a special session of the Legislature and unveiled a proposed penalty on oil production. With prices again near record highs, Californians are rightfully upset as current policies are not working.
As you are aware, there was a temporary suspension of the diesel sales tax in a previous budget. Energy experts have noted the lack of production permits and an isolated energy market that places more cost burdens on hard-working Californians.
Hence, we call upon you to convene a special session of the Legislature to temporarily suspend the gas tax. By suspending the gas tax, everyday Californians can better afford to commute to work and drive their children to school.
Sincerely,
