Ohio Suspended State Gas Tax
Governor Mike DeWine enacted a 90-day suspension of the state's 38.5-cent gas tax to provide relief.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Oil and Gas
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Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced the suspension of the state's 38.5-cent-per-gallon gas tax, which is set to begin on October 4, 2026. This measure aims to provide immediate financial relief to Ohio residents facing high fuel costs as the national average gas price sits at $4.39 per gallon.
Why it matters
The suspension serves as a direct intervention to assist citizens struggling with elevated fuel prices. While other neighboring states are weighing their options, Ohio has moved forward with this policy to offer temporary relief.
The Ohio gas tax is currently 38.5 cents per gallon, a rate that will be removed for a 90-day period. This contrasts with Kentucky, where the tax remains at 26.4 cents per gallon, and West Virginia, where the tax is 35.7 cents per gallon.
The players
Mike DeWine
He is the Governor of Ohio who enacted the suspension of the state gas tax.
Andy Beshear
He is the Governor of Kentucky who previously froze a planned increase to his state's gas tax.
The details
Governor Mike DeWine announced the decision to suspend the tax on October 1, 2026, following pressure from rising fuel costs. Neighboring states have taken different approaches, with Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear previously freezing a planned two-cent tax increase while West Virginia officials continue to review potential relief measures.
Timeline
October 1, 2026: Governor DeWine announced the Ohio gas tax suspension.
October 2, 2026: Kentucky and West Virginia governors were asked about similar measures.
October 4, 2026: The Ohio gas tax suspension officially begins.
July 2026: Kentucky previously froze a planned two-cent gas tax increase.
Market Landscape
This move highlights the divergence in regional fiscal policy during periods of high fuel volatility. While states like Ohio are opting for temporary tax suspensions, others are navigating the balance between revenue maintenance and consumer relief through more limited freezes like the 2026 Kentucky gas tax increase.
Drivers in Ohio can expect to see lower costs at the pump starting October 4, 2026, as the 38.5-cent-per-gallon tax is removed. This relief is temporary and will remain in effect for 90 days.
The takeaway
This policy offers a temporary cushion for household budgets against national fuel inflation. Residents should plan for fuel costs to potentially fluctuate again once the 90-day suspension period concludes.
Further reading
For more on the state's energy policy, explore the Oil and Gas section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wsaz.
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