Kentucky Attorney General signs Gas Tax Cut Executive Order

BOWLING GREEN, Ky.- Kentucky drivers are seeing gas prices climb above $4 per gallon, with some stations in Franklin reporting overnight increases of nearly 50 cents.

In response, Gov. Andy Beshear signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency and temporarily reducing the state gas tax by 10 cents.

According to AAA, Kentucky’s average gas price was $3.97 one month ago. As of this week, the statewide average has risen to $4.31.

State officials say global conflict, including tensions involving Iran, could continue driving prices higher.

The executive order required approval from Kentucky Attorney General, Russell Coleman, who signed the order Thursday afternoon. Under Kentucky law, the order will remain in effect for 30 days.

Many Kentuckians say any relief at the pump is welcome.

“Any help is much needed,” said Anthony Atkins, who commutes daily to Logan County for work. “It would definitely help me out.”

AAA reports that while counties such as Simpson County are averaging around $4.15 per gallon, northern Kentucky counties including Campbell, Kenton and Pendleton are nearing $5 per gallon.

“Gas prices are terrible,” said Kevin Miles. “I spend about $10 just driving across town for one day, then have to refill again the next day.”

In a news release, Beshear said, “The American people are paying the costs of war, and families are struggling at the gas pump, grocery and more.”

“It’s been weeks since I’ve filled up my tank,” Franklin resident Jennifer Tarrance said. “I’ve been riding on a quarter tank for weeks.”

Atkins says rising prices have also changed the way he drives.

“I have a truck too, and it went from about $40 to $80 to fill up,” he said. “Now I drive this car to save gas.”

Drivers could begin seeing changes in gas prices by late May.