Could Montana See a Gas Tax Freeze This Summer?

Montanans are noticing a familiar pinch in their wallets as gas prices continue to rise across the state. Gas prices have been climbing steadily across the country, and with summer travel season right around the corner, many Montana families are paying close attention to growing discussions about a possible federal gas tax holiday.

Right now, there’s no indication that Montana plans to pause its own state fuel tax. But a federal proposal could still bring some relief to drivers across Big Sky Country.

For Now, Montana Is Keeping Its State Gas Tax in Place

Montana’s fuel tax currently adds just under 34 cents to every gallon of gas sold statewide. That money helps fund road repairs, highway maintenance, snow removal, and infrastructure projects across the state.

READ MORE: 5 Driving Mistakes That Could Cost Montana Drivers

While a handful of states have already moved forward with temporary tax pauses this year, Montana leaders have not publicly signaled that similar action is coming here.

A Federal Gas Tax Holiday Is Gaining Attention

Most of the conversation right now is happening in Washington.

Recently, President Donald Trump has come out in support of temporarily suspending the federal gas tax, telling CBS News, “We’re going to take off the gas tax for a period of time, and when gas goes down, we’ll let it phase back in.” The federal tax currently adds 18.4 cents per gallon for gasoline and 24.4 cents for diesel fuel.

Any suspension would still need approval from Congress before it could actually happen.

Lawmakers supporting the idea say the goal would be to help drivers during the busy summer travel season, especially as vacation road trips and agricultural travel ramp up.

What a Gas Tax Holiday Could Mean for Montana Families

Montanans tend to drive longer distances than people in many other states, and fuel costs add up quickly here.

Some estimates suggest a temporary federal gas tax pause could save Montana and Idaho families around $30 to $40 each month if the full savings were passed through to consumers at the pump.

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Other States Are Already Offering Relief

Several states, including Georgia, Indiana, and Utah, have already approved temporary fuel tax relief measures this year to help offset rising prices.

So far, Montana has stayed out of that group.

For now, Montana drivers are left watching to see whether Congress moves forward with a federal plan before the summer travel season hits full swing.