Senator Robach Urges Assembly To Pass Partial Tax Exemption On Gasoline

Senator Joe Robach today called on his colleagues in the State Assembly to pass Assembly Bill A10289 (Reilly) which provides a partial tax exemption on motor fuel and diesel motor fuel. Specifically, this legislation would cap the sales tax on gasoline at a taxable value of $2 per gallon.

The Senate’s version of the bill, S5968, sponsored by Senator Robach, passed the State Senate on January 31, 2006 and was delivered to the State Assembly on that day. The Assembly bill, as of today, has not been brought to the Assembly floor for a vote.

"Throughout New York and here locally, we are again seeing gasoline prices near and above $3.00 per gallon," stated Senator Robach, "Everyday, we are told that taxes are too high. The tax relief provided in this legislation will be realized by both employers and residential motorists alike and will have a huge positive impact on a major aspect of our everyday life."

Today, a motion was made in the Assembly to include this bill in the New York State Budget, effectively ensuring the exemption and passing the savings onto customers. The motion failed but by a narrow margin of 77-63. Senator Robach hopes the bill will be brought before Assembly for favorable action as quickly as possible.

"I am happy that the Senate recognized the negative impact that high gas prices are having on the working men and women in our community" Senator Robach continued. "As gas prices continue to rise, I am continuing my efforts to strongly urge the Assembly to act swiftly on this legislation to bring much needed relief to the residents of Monroe County and all New Yorkers."