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Gas prices hit $5 in Philly as President Trump pushes tax relief
Gas prices are rising sharply across the country, prompting President Trump to propose a pause on the federal gas tax to provide relief, but congressional approval is needed.
PHILADELPHIA - Gas prices continue to climb across the country, with Pennsylvania averaging $4.67 per gallon and some Philadelphia stations charging more than $5. President Trump says he wants to pause the federal gas tax to help drivers, but he will need Congress to make it happen.
Gas prices hit new highs in Pennsylvania and beyond
What we know:
Gas prices have jumped about $1.50 since February.
The national average is now $4.52 per gallon, with Pennsylvania at $4.67, New Jersey at $4.52 and Delaware at $4.34.
At a Lukoil station on Delaware Avenue in Philadelphia, prices have already passed $5 per gallon. "It’s about $.50 more than the national average, yeah. Last week I was looking at 4.69 and it’s been ramping up every time I come by the gas station," said Anna Negron, who said she is driving less and cutting back elsewhere.
Drivers say the higher prices are forcing them to change their routines, with some traveling to New Jersey or shopping at warehouse stores to save money.
Why prices are rising and what could change
The backstory:
Gas prices are higher than they have been in several years, which can be attributed to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz amid the months-long war in Iran. President Trump is proposing a temporary suspension of the federal gas tax, which is about 18.5 cents per gallon.
Trump says he aims to suspend gas tax amid high fuel prices
President Donald Trump said on Monday morning that he aims to suspend the federal gas tax for a period of time to help address high fuel prices.
When asked how long the tax suspension would last, Trump said, "Till it’s appropriate, yeah it’s a small percentage, but it’s still money." The move would require congressional approval.
Small business owner Darnell Wright said, "I’m a Republican and American I voted for Trump. I believe in some of his policies do work but the gas prices in this worn on we didn’t vote for that and we want change."
Some drivers are making changes to save money, including driving to New Jersey for cheaper gas or filling up at Costco.
"I only do it once a month. I have a hybrid car. It’s an easy commute for me from Philly to here," said Joanna George. "Getting it at Costco really helps it’s cheaper than some of the other places. This is a big fan. It’s 100 bucks to fill it up. We’re a church organization so we’re filling the pinch a little bit," said Glenna Harkins.
Many drivers say they are feeling the impact of the price increases and are looking for ways to cut costs.
What we don't know:
It is not yet clear if Congress will approve President Trump’s proposal to pause the federal gas tax or how quickly any relief could reach drivers.
The Source: Information from FOX 29’s Joann Pileggi and interviews with local drivers.