Why It Matters
South Carolina motorists are paying 46.9% more at the pump than a year ago, with the average price of regular unleaded gasoline reaching $4.085 per gallon. Lawmakers have refused to vote on a proposal to temporarily suspend the state’s 28-cent-per-gallon gas tax despite bipartisan support and warnings that the levy is hitting lower-income drivers hardest.
What Happened
House Speaker Murrell Smith and Ways and Means Chairman Bruce Bannister have blocked floor debate on a gas tax suspension despite multiple attempts by S.C. Freedom Caucus members to force a vote. The proposal was first introduced in March 2026 by Democratic lawmakers Russell Ott and Justin Bamberg. Republican gubernatorial frontrunner and Attorney General Alan Wilson endorsed the suspension in late March.
The suspension would have saved South Carolina drivers an estimated $120 million since April 1 if approved, according to supporters. They argue the cost could be covered by reserve funds or by trimming the state budget.
By the Numbers
Gas prices in South Carolina have climbed $1.31 per gallon since May 2025. The state’s gas tax stands at 28 cents per gallon after a 71% increase between 2017 and 2022. South Carolina currently ranks 12th lowest nationally for gas prices. Residents spend a higher percentage of income on fuel than the national average due to lower wage levels in the state.
Zoom Out
The price surge follows increased tensions in the Middle East. U.S. Representative Jim Clyburn has tied the spike to military action against Iran, stating that Americans were already struggling with high costs before the conflict escalated.
Gas taxes are considered regressive because they consume a larger share of income for lower earners. Democratic lawmakers in South Carolina have consistently advocated for reducing or eliminating the state gas tax on those grounds. The Republican-controlled legislature raised the levy as part of an infrastructure funding package that critics say has failed to address road and bridge deficiencies.
What’s Next
With gubernatorial elections approaching, the gas tax debate is expected to remain a campaign issue. Lawmakers have not scheduled any votes on suspension proposals. The state legislature is considering a budget for fiscal year 2026-2027 that includes spending increases, but no gas tax relief measures have been attached to the spending package.