Beshear criticizes GOP lawmakers over opposition to gas tax relief efforts

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

FRANKFORT, Ky., (KBSI) — Gov. Andy Beshear is criticizing Kentucky Republican lawmakers for opposing efforts to lower gas taxes, arguing that families need relief from rising fuel costs.

In a statement released Monday, Beshear said his administration filed an emergency regulation to freeze Kentucky’s gas tax at 26.4 cents per gallon ahead of a scheduled increase to 27 cents on July 1. He also pointed to a previous executive order that temporarily reduced the state’s gas tax by 10 cents.

Beshear said Kentucky families are facing financial pressure from higher costs for housing, groceries and fuel and argued that government should take steps to provide relief.

The governor also noted that President Donald Trump has advocated for suspending the federal gas tax, saying the issue should not be viewed through a partisan lens.

Beshear said Republican leaders in the Kentucky General Assembly have opposed his efforts, describing their criticism as political rather than focused on helping consumers.

In addition to supporting a federal gas tax suspension, Beshear called on the Trump administration to work toward resolving tensions involving Iran and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route.

Beshear urged voters to consider lawmakers’ positions on fuel taxes and consumer costs ahead of the November election.