REPUBLICAN LEGISLATORS CALL FOR GAS TAX CAP

Erie County, NY – Erie County Republican lawmakers are introducing a measure to cap the Erie County sales tax on gasoline.  The measure would cap the tax at two dollars to help ease the pain at the pumps.

“With the increase in gasoline prices, we need to provide Erie County residents with some relief.  By capping Erie County’s tax on gas, taxpayers can keep a little extra money in their pockets,” said Minority Leader and Erie County Legislator John Mills.

“We will keep pushing for relief at the pumps.  By changing the sales tax charged on a gallon of gas from a variable rate to a fixed amount our constituents can save a few dollars every time they fill up, and that’s a good thing,” said Erie County Legislator Frank Todaro.

New York State authorizes counties and cities to levy a three percent sales and compensating use tax on various goods purchased within that city or county.  Additionally, the state authorizes Erie County to levy an additional one and three quarters percent sales tax, totaling four and three quarters percent sales tax.

“Families deserve some relief.  We can do this without hurting any Erie County services.  This is a positive action, and I hope our colleagues on the other side of the aisle join us this time,” said Erie County Legislator Chris Greene.

Republican lawmakers attempted to pass a gas tax cap back in early June, but Democrat lawmakers rejected the measure.

“Concerns about the impact on sales tax revenue held up this proposal back in June, but we now know Erie County is collecting revenue ahead of budget projections.  We know we can provide this relief and it’s time to put money back in taxpayers’ pockets,” said Legislator Lindsay Lorigo.

The tax cap measure was clocked in Tuesday, October 20th.