The Pennsylvania GOP has expressed opposition to Governor Josh Shapiro’s failure to fulfill his 2022 campaign promise of a $250 gas-tax refund per vehicle. This criticism comes as state fuel costs remain among the highest in the nation.
Pennsylvania imposes one of the highest state gasoline taxes in the United States, which contributes to fuel prices that are significantly above the national average. Governor Shapiro, who assumed office in 2023, had pledged during his campaign to provide residents with a $250 gas-tax refund per registered vehicle to alleviate high transportation costs. The Pennsylvania GOP’s recent statements highlight frustration over rising consumer prices and what it perceives as a lack of tax relief amid ongoing economic challenges for families in the state.
According to the American Petroleum Institute, Pennsylvania’s combined state and federal gas tax rate is approximately 77.1 cents per gallon, ranking third highest nationally behind California and Illinois. This rate surpasses the national average of around 57 cents per gallon, contributing to persistent price disparities across state lines.
As reported by AAA data from early December 2025, while the national average gasoline price has fallen below $3 per gallon, Pennsylvania’s average remains around $3.45. The higher state fuel levy accounts for a significant portion of this difference, impacting both household budgets and transportation sector costs.
