East SBV Times

Today, an attempt to suspend California's gas tax was halted by Senate Democrats without discussion. Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) proposed a bill this week aiming to temporarily eliminate the state's excise tax on gasoline, which could have offered economic relief to consumers.

"Our families across the state are facing unprecedented financial strain. From groceries to utilities, the cost of living continues to soar," stated Senator Ochoa Bogh. "I'm deeply disappointed in the legislature's decision to continue ignoring real solutions for lowering gas prices. It is our legislative duty to support struggling families, and one critical step we can take is to provide immediate relief from the burdensome state excise tax."

The proposal sought a one-year suspension of the gas tax with direct savings for consumers. If approved, it would have been enacted immediately.

Senator Ochoa Bogh introduced her bill earlier this week but was informed it did not align with the scope of the Extraordinary Session. The Senate Rules Committee should have made this determination publicly, raising concerns about legislative transparency.

Despite setbacks, Senator Ochoa Bogh sent a formal letter to Senate President Pro Tempore Mike McGuire urging reconsideration by Democrat leadership but was ultimately unsuccessful.

Senator Ochoa authored an op-ed titled "California families need a break at the pump, let's suspend the gas tax today," published in all 11 newspapers of the Southern California News Group.

According to the Auto Club, California's current average price for a gallon of gas is $4.67 compared to a national average of $3.20.

"It is time we start delivering for the people we're elected to serve," concluded Senator Ochoa Bogh.