PRESS RELEASE
April 30, 2008

Majority Legislators Seek Reduction in State Gas Taxes

Members of the majority on the Rensselaer County Legislature have introduced a resolution seeking a reduction in the state gas taxes to give relief to residents, along with calling on federal officials to expand production to lower the price of crude oil.

The call by county Republicans to lower the state gas tax for three months during the summer follows calls by State Senate Republicans and Assembly Republicans to lower the state gas tax during the summer. The move to erase the 32.75 cent per gallon state tax could save motorists an average of $5 per gallon each time they fill up.

“Gas prices are fast approaching the $4 mark, and for so many residents, this is a real crisis. A reduction in the state gas tax along with an expansion of production would help provide a needed measure of relief,” said Chairman of the Legislature Neil J. Kelleher.

“There is no question that out of control gas prices are hurting our residents and by extension, stifling any growth in our economy. Now is the time for action before gas prices go even higher,” said Vice Chairman of the Legislature Richard Salisbury.

The resolution seeking the reduction in the state gas tax and the increase in overall supply was filed with the Clerk of the Legislature yesterday and will be considered at the May 13 legislative meeting.

While there is a growing call for the state to reduce the state taxes, there are calls for President Bush and federal lawmakers to negotiate with OPEC to increase the supply of oil. An increase in the supply of oil would help reduce the overall cost of crude oil.

“Every resident and every business is being hurt by the historic high for gas prices. Providing relief at the pumps is going to provide a real boost for our economy and get things back on track,” said Majority Leader Robert Mirch.

“Reducing the state tax would provide immediate relief to residents. Increasing production could help lower the overall price for the next several months, but we need action from federal lawmakers,” said Legislator Martin Reid.

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