Trump’s Gas Tax Plan REJECTED—Industry Revolts…

Trucking and construction industries, vital to America’s economic backbone, unite against President Trump’s gas tax holiday proposal, warning it threatens highway funding more than it eases fuel costs.

Trump’s Announcement Amid Fuel Crisis

On May 11, 2026, President Donald Trump announced plans to suspend the federal gasoline tax of 18.4 cents per gallon and diesel tax of 24.4 cents per gallon. Surging fuel prices, driven by the ongoing Iran war, prompted the move to deliver relief to drivers and businesses. Trump described the suspension as lasting “as long as appropriate.” The proposal targets multi-year high prices affecting everyday Americans and the freight sector, which hauls 72% of U.S. goods by truck. However, implementation hinges on Congress, limiting presidential authority.

Trucking Groups’ Unified Opposition

The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA), American Trucking Associations (ATA), and National Tank Truck Carriers (NTTC) released a joint statement on May 12 opposing the suspension. Representing over 50,000 carriers, they argued the tax—collected at wholesale—yields little meaningful savings at retail pumps. Trucks contribute 20-25% of HTF revenues despite comprising just 4% of vehicles, due to high diesel use. Groups stressed preserving funds for safe, efficient freight movement on highways they disproportionately fund.

Highway Trust Fund at Risk

The federal gas tax has funded the Highway Trust Fund since 1956, supporting repairs critical for trucking and construction. A suspension could cost $500 million weekly, delaying projects and worsening potholes that endanger 10 million trucking jobs. Past proposals, like Biden’s 2022 holiday, failed over similar funding shortfalls and inflation risks. Industry experts note wholesalers and suppliers gain most from demand surges, not consumers. Stable HTF revenue ensures rural and highway-dependent communities maintain safe roads.

Construction groups mobilized against a Senate bill mirroring the proposal. They prioritize consistent funding over temporary relief, aligning with trucking’s call for alternatives like boosting domestic oil production. As of May 13, 2026, no congressional action occurred, with groups committed to working on viable solutions.

Trucking, construction trade groups voice opposition to Trump's proposed gas tax holiday https://t.co/N1AMvOOC6C

— Just the News (@JustTheNews) May 13, 2026

Broader Implications for American Workers

Truckers face sustained high costs without real pump relief, while owner-operators push separate reforms like overtime fixes. The proposal risks eroding infrastructure that underpins supply chains, hitting manufacturing competitiveness. Bipartisan resistance grows, underscoring shared frustration with short-term Washington fixes over lasting solutions. Americans on both sides tire of elite games that ignore working families chasing the dream through hard work. Prioritizing production and stable funding aligns with limited government principles and common-sense economics.