Gas tax relief bill being heard at Rhode Island State House

State officials estimate this will save RI drivers over $150 million.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — A bill to cut gas taxes in Rhode Island through the end of the year is being heard at the Rhode Island State House Thursday night.

The bill, sponsored by Rep. James McLaughlin (D), proposes  through Dec. 31, 2022 the state’s $0.35 tax on every gallon of gas is lifted.

Rhode Island officials estimate this will save drivers over $150 million through the end of the year, if passed.

“I just can’t see any near term solution… You need to get to work, I need to get to work,” McLaughlin said.

According to AAA, gas prices in the Ocean State are up 9 cents just the past week, now averaging $4.18 per gallon.

“Forget the politics. I know midterms are coming up, concentrate on what needs to be done now,” the representative added.

McLaughlin said he has 73 out of 75 signatures from members in the House.