GTrump cuts funding source foe road and bridge repairs
The federal gas tax helps fund road and bridge repairs through the Highway Trust Fund. Reuters reported the tax brings in about $2.5 billion a month for road work, meaning a pause could reduce transportation funding unless Congress replaces the money.
There is also no guarantee drivers would see the full savings. Economists have warned in past gas-tax debates that some of the benefit can be absorbed before it reaches consumers, depending on oil markets, supply conditions and how retailers price fuel.
Still, the proposal is likely to draw attention in Michigan, where long driving distances, lake-town tourism, agriculture, manufacturing and trucking all make fuel prices a kitchen-table issue.
The debate now moves to Congress. Sen. Josh Hawley has introduced legislation to pause both the federal gasoline and diesel taxes for 90 days, Reuters reported. Senate leaders have not yet committed to moving the measure, and lawmakers in both parties are weighing whether temporary tax relief would do enough while the conflict overseas continues.
For Michigan drivers, the question is simple: whether Washington can act fast enough for any savings to show up at the pump — and whether those savings would be enough to matter if the Iran crisis keeps oil prices high.
By: Tom Manke
Photo: Sunoco Owosso Township, Michigan
May 11, 2026