House Republican Press Release

June 4, 2008

Press Office: 860-240-8700

State Rep. Marilyn Giuliano Urges Action to Lower Connecticut’s Highest in the Nation Gas Taxes

State Rep. Marilyn Giuliano, R-23^rd, Old Lyme, Lyme, Old Saybrook, Westbrook, said the state legislature can still act to lower Connecticut’s highest in the nation gas taxes that contribute to making Connecticut’s gasoline prices the highest in the nation.

Connecticut motor fuels taxes are set to increase again on July 1.

The average price of gasoline in Connecticut has risen above $4.25, while gasoline across the border in Massachusetts recently has been as low as $3.90 per gallon.

Connecticut fuel taxes are scheduled to rise as follows:

• Two state taxes on gasoline combined go from about 61 cents a gallon to about 65 cents a gallon (on top of 18.4 cents federal gasoline tax.)
• A state tax on diesel fuel goes from 37 cents a gallon to 44.7 cents a gallon (on top of 24.4 cents federal diesel tax).

Rep. Giuliano has proposed freezing Connecticut’s gasoline taxes so that an increase would not take effect, and therefore provide some measure of relief to hard working middle class families.

“Some people have no choice but to drive to work,” said Rep. Giuliano. “Connecticut  does not have to have the highest taxes in the nation. The legislature can take action to make Connecticut more affordable so more people will want to live, work and retire here.”

Rep. Giuliano has cosponsored an alternative state budget that meets the needs of the state’s citizens while holding down taxes. The majority in the legislature opposed this budget alternative.

Rep. Giuliano serves the 23^rd Assembly District of Old Lyme, Lyme, Old Saybrook and Westbrook in the state House of Representatives.