South Carolina 2025-2026 Regular Session

South Carolina House Bill H5398

Introduced
3/24/26  

Caption

A JOINT RESOLUTION TO SUSPEND A PORTION OF THE IMPOSITION OF THE USER FEE ON GASOLINE AND DIESEL FUEL AND THE IMPOSITION OF THE ROAD TAX FOR SIXTY DAYS.

Impact

The implications of H5398 on state laws are significant, particularly in how they affect revenue generated from fuel taxes, which are critical for state transportation funding. This suspension may lead to decreased funds for road maintenance and infrastructure projects during the period of suspension. However, it also reflects a legislative willingness to address public concerns regarding high fuel costs and their impact on the economy. Lawmakers are likely to monitor the effects of this temporary measure closely to assess its effectiveness and determine the need for any further action.

Summary

House Bill 5398, known as the Motor Fuel User Fee Suspension, proposes to temporarily suspend the user fee imposed on gasoline and diesel fuel, as well as the corresponding road tax for a duration of sixty days. This action is designed to alleviate some of the financial burdens on consumers and businesses that rely on fuel for transportation. With the suspension, the state aims to provide a short-term financial relief option in response to ongoing economic concerns, likely exacerbated by market fluctuations affecting fuel prices.

Contention

Given that road taxes are a significant source of funding for infrastructure, the suspension may ignite debates among legislators about the long-term impacts of such measures. Proponents will argue that suspending the tax is a necessary relief for consumers and businesses, especially during difficult economic times. Conversely, opponents may raise concerns about the fiscal responsibility of temporarily reducing state revenue that is essential for maintaining the state's infrastructure and transportation network.

Companion Bills

SC S1045

Similar To Suspend the Gas Tax

SC H5419

Similar To A JOINT RESOLUTION TO SUSPEND THE IMPOSITION OF THE USER FEE ON GASOLINE AND DIESEL FUEL AND THE IMPOSITION OF THE ROAD TAX FOR THIRTY DAYS.

SC H5443

Similar To A JOINT RESOLUTION TO SUSPEND THE IMPOSITION OF THE USER FEE ON GASOLINE AND DIESEL FUEL AND THE IMPOSITION OF THE ROAD TAX FOR NINETY DAYS.

SC H5422

Similar To A JOINT RESOLUTION TO SUSPEND THE IMPOSITION OF THE USER FEE ON GASOLINE AND DIESEL FUEL AND THE IMPOSITION OF THE ROAD TAX FOR THIRTY DAYS AND FOR AN AUTOMATIC EXTENSION FOR ANOTHER THIRTY DAYS IF THE AVERAGE PRICE OF GASOLINE HAS NOT FALLEN BY FIFTEEN PERCENT AT THE END OF THE INITIAL THIRTY-DAY PERIOD.

SC H5475

Similar To A JOINT RESOLUTION TO SUSPEND THE IMPOSITION OF THE USER FEE ON GASOLINE AND DIESEL FUEL AND THE IMPOSITION OF THE ROAD TAX FOR NINETY DAYS.

Previously Filed As

SC H5419

Motor fuel user fee suspension

SC H5443

Motor fuel user fee suspension

SC H5475

Motor fuel user fee suspension

SC H5422

Motor fuel user fee suspension

SC HB655

Gasoline and motor fuel taxes, to suspend the state excise taxes on gasoline and motor fuels from April 15, 2026 to June 15, 2026.

SC HB351

Clarify point of taxation for gasoline and special fuels taxes

SC SF5056

Temporary moratorium establishment on imposition of the motor fuels tax

SC S2096

Provides three-month reduction or suspension of tax on highway fuels based on average retail price of unleaded regular gasoline; makes an appropriation.

SC HF5134

Temporary moratorium on imposition of the motor fuels tax established, transfers made, and money appropriated.

SC SB00148

An Act Requiring Disclosure Of Taxes And Government-mandated Fees On Signage Advertising The Price Of Gasoline Or Diesel Fuel.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.