Jonathan Russell Asks Governor Kehoe to Call Special Session For Gas Tax Relief

Jonathan Russell Joins Growing Coalition of Missouri Lawmakers Demanding Families Get a Break at the Pump
 
NEOSHO, MO — Jonathan Russell (R-Neosho) today is asking Governor Mike Kehoe to convene a special session of the Missouri General Assembly to suspend Missouri’s 29.5-cent state gas tax through December 31, 2026, joining a growing effort led by Rep. Tricia Byrnes (R-Wentzville) to provide immediate relief for Missouri families.
 
Missouri’s average gas price has surpassed $4.17 per gallon — up more than $1.30 from one year ago. A full suspension of the 29.5-cent state gas tax would save the average driver $3.84 per fill-up, and a family with two vehicles up to $69 per month.
 
“Families here in Newton County are feeling the squeeze every time they fill up at the pump, paying over $1.30 more per gallon than they were last year.  That’s money coming straight out of household budgets.  The gas tax was pushed through in Jefferson City without a vote of the people back in 2021, and I believe taxpayers deserve relief.  I appreciate Rep. Byrnes leading the effort to pause the tax and put money back into the pockets of hardworking Missourians.”

• Jonathan Russell, Candidate for State Representative

 
Russell noted that the state’s motor fuel tax was increased 12.5 cents per gallon by the General Assembly in 2021 without a public vote. A moratorium would suspend that increase and the base tax, saving families across Newton County real money during the summer and fall driving season.
The effort aligns with President Trump’s endorsement of federal gas tax relief and U.S. Senator Josh Hawley’s Gas Tax Suspension Act, introduced May 12. If both the state and federal suspensions pass, Missouri families would save nearly 48 cents on every gallon.
MoDOT currently holds $1.655 billion in reserve, and the General Assembly has appropriated nearly $5 billion in General Revenue to transportation over the last six years. A companion appropriations bill would make MoDOT, cities, and counties whole during the holiday period.
 
Jonathan Russell is a REALTOR and small business owner who understands firsthand what $4.17 gas means for a family budget.