Nozzolio Proposes Legislation To Cap Sales Tax On Gasoline

Albany—State Senator Michael F. Nozzolio (R-Fayette) announced today that he is working to create immediate gasoline tax relief by introducing legislation that would repeal the state sales tax on gasoline and motor fuel through March 31, 2006.

“The high cost of gasoline has placed a tremendous financial burden on consumers,” Senator Nozzolio said. “This proposed new legislation would give financial relief to New York State families who have no control over the cost of gasoline and fuel oil."

Senator Nozzolio is also supporting legislation which would roll back the gasoline tax and replace it with a fixed state-local levy, providing motorists with immediate tax savings. Unlike the existing tax levy, the new gasoline tax would not rise as prices increase, thereby protecting consumers from huge increases in gasoline costs.

Senator Nozzolio is committed to doing all possible to limit the negative financial impact any gasoline tax increase would have on his constituents.

Senator Nozzolio's legislation also creates a new “Senior Heat” program, which will provide direct, one-time, rebate checks of $100 or more to assist at least 640,000 New York seniors who are eligible for the Enhanced STAR property tax program in meeting their increased energy bills this winter. Enhanced STAR is available to seniors 65 years and older who earn under $68,000 per year.

“Seniors living on fixed incomes should not be faced with decisions between staying warm or meeting life’s other necessities,” said Senator Nozzolio. “This program will help to avert tragedy and help hard-pressed seniors to meet their basic needs."

In addition to soaring gas prices, the price for natural gas and heating oil has risen dramatically since last winter. According to NYSERDA, the average fuel oil price rose from $1.76 per gallon one year ago to $2.43 per gallon last week -- a 38 percent increase. New York homeowners consume an average 800 gallons of fuel oil each winter. Natural gas costs are expected to show similar increases.

“Rising fuel costs are of increasing concern to New Yorkers and it is vital that we unveil proposals aimed at reducing New York’s long-term dependence on foreign oil,” Senator Nozzolio concluded.

###