In an effort to alleviate financial pressure from Arizonans during peak summer months, House Majority Whip Julie Willoughby has stepped forward with a legislative proposal targeting high gas prices. With the introduction of House Bill 2400, Willoughby aims to temporarily strip away the state's 18-cent gasoline tax for Maricopa and Pinal counties. This region, due to federal requirements, is compelled to sell a costlier fuel blend known as Cleaner Burning Gasoline from May through September, further bumping up expenses for local families. In a statement obtained by the Arizona Legislature's press arm, Willoughby expressed her concern, "During the summer, these counties can only sell Cleaner Burning Gasoline—a boutique fuel blend refined in limited quantities, primarily in California. That limited supply drives up costs, and Arizona drivers pay the price."
According to official statements, Phoenix drivers have found themselves paying more for gas than those in Los Angeles as of 2023, a comparison that highlights the financial predicament exacerbated by shutdowns of California refineries. "As California refineries shut down, supply constraints will increase—pushing prices higher at a time when families are struggling with rising costs. Arizona now ranks as the sixth most expensive state in the nation for gas," Willoughby remarked. Her commitment to battle living costs reflects the Republican priority for affordability, with a promise to uphold what she defines as the American Dream for working families.
To address potential revenue losses for local governments due to the tax exemption, HB 2400 includes preventive measures. The bill proposes making local governments whole for the expected reduction in the Highway User Revenue Fund. This safeguard appears to have been designed to maintain essential services such as road and street maintenance throughout rural areas even in the absence of the tax.
"We'll continue pursuing long-term solutions, but Arizona families need relief now," Willoughby added, highlighting the immediacy of the situation. Concurrently with HB 2400, she is also spearheading House Concurrent Memorial 2008, which encourages Congress to consider the same suspension of the federal gas tax. House Majority Whip Willoughby represents Arizona's Legislative District 13, which includes Chandler, Gilbert, and Sun Lakes. She remains active on social platforms, engaging with constituents via posts on platforms like Twitter where she can be followed @JWilloughbyAz.
