Gov. Beshear extends gas tax reduction for 33 communities

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WNKY) — Gov. Andy Beshear is extending his executive order to reduce the state gas tax by 10 cents through the end of June. That’s according to a press release from the governor’s office. 

The initial executive order, which took effect on May 11, is set to expire Wednesday, June 10. This extension only impacts the 33 communities where local leaders requested an extension. For an executive order to be extended, state law mandates county judge-executives and city mayors to make a request, a news release from the governor’s office says.

The communities requesting the extension include Alexandria, Ashland, Campton, Carrsville, Clay City, Covington, Drakesboro, Earlington, Eminence, Falmouth, Gamaliel, Glencoe, Island, Jenkins, London, McHenry, Oak Grove, Owensboro, Owingsville, Paintsville, Park City, Sebree, Smithfield, Smiths Grove, West Point, Whitesville and Winchester; Louisville Jefferson County Metro Government; and Carter, Graves, Magoffin, Morgan and Wolfe counties.

Counties that did not request an extension will likely see gas prices increase beginning Thursday.

“Gas prices are too high due to the continued war in Iran, and Americans – including right here in Kentucky – are struggling. Every dollar counts, and my executive order lowered gas and diesel prices across the state to help our families save,” said Gov. Beshear. “Government is there to help our people, and the state can and will make up any potential financial hit. Right now, our priority should be on Kentucky families, and I applaud these local leaders for doing what’s right.” 

Beshear suggested added pressure from state legislators during recent committee hearings may have led some local officials not to file requests.

The governor’s office says the 10-cent reduction is projected to save Kentuckians $26.8 million combined over one month.