State Representative Dave Severin announced on April 10 that he is sponsoring legislation to temporarily suspend Illinois’ sales tax on gasoline for six months, aiming to provide relief for drivers facing high fuel prices.
The proposed House Bill 5738 would pause the state’s sales tax on gasoline from July 1 through December 31, 2026. The measure is intended to help families cope with rising costs at the pump and offer immediate financial relief.
“Working families shouldn’t be hit twice every time they fill up their tank,” Severin said. “Illinois already charges a motor fuel tax on every gallon of gas. Temporarily suspending the sales tax will provide real, immediate relief at the pump.”
Severin criticized actions taken during the Fall 2025 Veto Session, when revenues from gas sales taxes were redirected to support transit systems in Chicago rather than providing direct relief to motorists. “Instead of prioritizing relief for taxpayers, Chicago politicians chose to divert these funds away from motorists,” Severin said. “We should be putting money back into the pockets of the people who are paying these taxes every day.”
He also stated that suspending the sales tax would not affect funding for road construction or infrastructure projects in Southern Illinois because those are supported by the state’s motor fuel tax. “The state’s motor fuel tax already funds critical road and bridge projects,” Severin said. “Pausing the sales tax won’t slow down those projects, but it will help families better afford their daily commute and everyday expenses.”
Severin described his proposal as a straightforward solution that lawmakers can enact quickly: “This is a commonsense measure,” he said. “If we’re serious about helping Illinois families, we should act quickly to lower costs at the pump.”
Severin was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 116th House District in 2023, succeeding David Friess according to Ballotpedia.
The announcement comes amid ongoing discussions about how best to address inflation and cost-of-living increases affecting residents across Illinois.
