Agriculture commissioner suggests suspending fuel tax as prices continue rising

MISSISSIPPI (WXXV) — As gas prices across the United States continue to rise, Mississippi Agriculture Commissioner Andy Gipson is calling on state leaders to take action.

Commissioner Gipson is specifically asking Governor Tate Reeves to consider declaring an economic emergency, as high fuel costs continue affecting Mississippians.

In a press release, Commissioner Gipson noted that high gas and diesel prices are putting financial pressure on Mississippi farmers, loggers, and other workers during peak harvest season. He’s suggesting possible relief in the form of temporary suspensions on the state fuel tax and allowing farmers and loggers to use off-road diesel to increase available supply.

Commissioner Gipson says that the current fuel prices are “breaking the backbone of Mississippi’s economy,” and that “working people cannot endure much more of this.” He believes it is time for Mississippi to take action and is calling on the governor to explore options for providing relief as soon as possible, noting that Louisiana and Alabama have already implemented temporary measures to help address rising fuel costs.

This comes as gas prices in the state of Mississippi continue to climb. According to AAA, the average price across the state, as of September 29, sits just under $4 per gallon at $3.99. While at this time last year, gas was $2.67 on average. And just last week – a shocking milestone as diesel hit a record high of $6.06 per gallon.

Commissioner Gipson says relief could include calling the legislature into special session to approve projects as well as temporary provisions to provide whatever relief the state can muster to help people get through “the current crushing fuel prices.”

WXXV is continuing to follow this story and will provide updates as they are made available.