Assemblyman Bill Reilich (R-C-I, Greece) is announcing that very soon New York motorists can expect to see relief at the gas pump. On Monday, the state Legislature reached an agreement to cap the gas tax at a flat rate, saving drivers four cents a gallon. “At present levels this agreement will save motorists $250 million,” said Reilich. “If gasoline prices rise, so will savings, allowing consumers to place more money into our economy instead of state coffers.”
Reilich noted that today’s measures can find its origins in legislation that was proposed and advocated by himself and Senator Robach (R-C-I, Greece) from prior years. While the present form of the relief doesn’t solve the problem of rising gasoline prices, Reilich stated that it is a step in the right direction.
“We need to do more to end the pinch felt at the pump. I am advocating that the state Legislature work off the momentum of today’s legislation and move to support legislation that will help create and promote research into alternative fuels.” Assemblyman Reilich is supporting efforts to explore a long term solution that will help New York transition away from fossil fuels.
Reilich said that “doing so will reduce fuel costs through lessened demand for gasoline. It will also create jobs and opportunities for our farmers and manufacturers, and will be better for our environment and our national security.”