Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara announced today that his proposal to suspend the state tax on gasoline and diesel fuel was passed as part of the final state budget. Santabarbara first introduced the proposal back in March after gas prices began to surge and the idea was quickly supported and even attracted the attention of other states.

“While we can’t control the price of gas nationally, we can do our part here in New York.” said Assemblyman Santabarbara, who is a member of the New York State Assembly’s Energy Committee. “By passing this measure here tonight, we are mitigating some of the effects of the current crisis and helping working class families save more of their hard-earned money.

The proposal was designed to save money for both commuters and consumers — expected to provide nearly $600 million in relief. 

For commuters who refuel even once a week it could save hundreds of dollars in the coming months.

For consumers the increases in gasoline and diesel prices are not only being felt at the gas pump, but also in store aisles.

For delivery vehicles and trucks that sometimes need to fill up more than once a day, this measure will save thousands of dollars on shipping and transportation costs to get essential goods to our communities Those savings can be passed on to consumers at the grocery store and on the products we buy for everyday needs, Santabarbara noted.