March 10, 2009
Tuesday

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin pledged her support today for Senator Bettye Davis' bill to extend Alaska's suspension of the motor fuel tax. Senate Bill 14 extends a portion of the governor's multi-phase statewide energy plan she introduced last year to help Alaskans combat the high cost of energy.

"Alaskans are unique among Americans in the contiguous states in terms of transportation costs," Palin said. "In rural Alaska, particularly, many people are still paying outrageous fuel costs. Heating and fuel bills are double and triple what others pay in the Lower 48. I support any sound measure that relieves the burden Alaskans feel in their pocketbook; in this case, it's continued support for eliminating a tax at the pump."

According to the AAA Daily Fuel Gauge Report, Alaskans pay on average $2.519 per gallon of regular gasoline, which is more than 30 cents higher than California, which has the highest price per gallon in the contiguous states. Even Hawaii, another remote state, pays seven cents per gallon less than Alaska. National comparisons can be viewed at fuelgaugereport.com.

"The concept is that this bill will help stimulate the economy during the current recession," Senator Davis said. "It will grant relief to all consumers of motor fuel, including aircraft, watercraft and standard motor vehicles."

"I appreciate Senator Davis' efforts on this," Palin said. "So do Alaskan families that are really feeling the pinch. The average commuter driving between Anchorage and the Valley fills up their rig at least twice a week; these costs add up quickly. By extending our gas tax suspension, Alaskans, such as these commuters, will continue to save their hard-earned money, and government will learn to live on a tighter budget."

Source of News:

Office of the Governor
www.gov.state.ak.us

 

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