North Carolina drivers could see lower gas prices as fuel tax suspension begins

RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — North Carolina drivers could soon see lower prices at the pump after the Relief at the Pump Act became law Friday, temporarily suspending the state’s 41-cent-per-gallon fuel tax.

The suspension takes effect Saturday, Oct. 10, and will remain in place through Nov. 30, covering the Thanksgiving travel holiday.

The legislation temporarily eliminates state taxes on gasoline and diesel fuel, providing relief to drivers, farmers and businesses facing higher fuel costs.

The law also gives farmers additional flexibility to use dyed diesel during this year’s harvest season.

According to state lawmakers, the legislation includes provisions to maintain funding for road, bridge and other transportation infrastructure projects while the fuel tax is suspended.

House Speaker Destin Hall said the measure is intended to provide financial relief to North Carolina residents.

“Hardworking North Carolinians need relief at the gas pump, and help is on the way. Years of responsible budgeting have put North Carolina in a position to provide meaningful relief when families need it most, and pausing fuel taxes is another way House Republicans are working to make our state more affordable for everyone,” Hall said.

While the tax suspension is expected to reduce fuel costs, the amount drivers save at individual gas stations will depend on how the tax change is reflected in retail prices.