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Press Release

Ohio Leaders Applaud Republicans’ Decisive Action on Gas Tax Suspension

October 1, 2026

COLUMBUS – Following the passage of the gas tax suspension, organizations across the state have voiced support for the suspension and praised Republican leaders for their focus on reducing costs for Ohio families.


Steve Stivers, President & CEO of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce

“The Ohio Chamber of Commerce applauds Ohio Gubernatorial Candidate Vivek Ramaswamy’s leadership on motor fuel tax relief, which resulted in the Ohio General Assembly’s quick and bipartisan action today to suspend the state’s gas tax for 90 days.

This measure strikes the right balance: meaningful relief at the pump for Ohio families and employers, and a fully funded transportation system that keeps our economy moving. We call on Gov. Mike DeWine to swiftly enact Substitute House Bill 519 into law so that Ohioans can begin to realize these savings for the remainder of the calendar year.”

Jared Weiser, NFIB Ohio State Director

“Ohio’s small businesses will directly benefit from this temporary gas tax suspension. As business costs continue to rise, Main Street businesses welcome any financial relief they can get. We appreciate Speaker Matt Huffman, Senate President Rob McColley, and gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy for leading the effort and the members of the Legislature for passing this legislation.”

Eric Tipton, Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association President

“Relief at the pump is a big deal, especially for farmers across the state who are working day and night to harvest this year’s crop. Diesel costs are already hitting razor-thin farm budgets hard.

That’s why I applaud the leadership of Vivek Ramaswamy, Speaker Matt Huffman, and Senate President Rob McColley for recognizing the financial pressure Ohioans face, acting quickly, and working together to pass a 90-day motor fuel tax holiday.

This will help farmers, but it will also help families across Ohio who feel that same pressure every time they fill up.”

Lindsay Hall, President of the Ohio Cattlemen’s Association

“The Ohio Cattlemen’s Association appreciates Vivek Ramaswamy’s strong leadership in addressing the economic impact of high fuel prices on beef farm families throughout the state. His detailed plan to suspend Ohio’s motor fuel tax for 90 days will provide welcome relief. As farmers harvest crops and transport cattle to market, high fuel prices increase operating costs and place additional economic pressure on already shrinking bottom lines.”

Tom Balzer, President & CEO of the Ohio Trucking Association

“This is welcome relief for Ohioans who are stretched thin, and for the truckers who keep our state supplied. Just as important, lawmakers made sure this relief did not come at the expense of the roads and bridges every Ohioan depends on. OTA appreciates the commitment made from the very beginning to keep the state and local governments whole, so that critical repairs and projects stay on track.” 

Michael R. Bertolone, Business Manager International Union of Operating Engineers Local 18, and Clint Powell, Business Manager / Secretary Treasurer of Ohio Laborers’ District Council

“We thank Vivek Ramaswamy, President McColley, and Speaker Huffman for their work to deliver a gas tax suspension for Ohio families. Throughout this process, they listened to our concerns and worked with us to strengthen the bill while protecting funding for Ohio’s highway projects.”

Donovan O’Neil, AFP-OH State Director

“AFP-OH applauds Vivek Ramaswamy and bipartisan leaders in the General Assembly for acting swiftly to pursue relief for Ohio families. Their leadership shows that bold, bipartisan action is possible when lawmakers remain focused on the challenges facing hardworking Ohioans.

A 90-day gas tax suspension can provide relief now, but it should also serve as a starting point for more permanent reforms. Next session, Ohio has an opportunity to build on this momentum by exploring permanently lowering the gas tax, delivering meaningful property tax relief, and phasing out the state personal income tax. All priorities included in AFP-OH’s Buckeye Blueprint.”


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