Md. Drivers Paying Less Despite Another Gas Tax Hike
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- It's Fourth of July weekend, and a number of new laws have gone into effect, including another hike in the state's gas tax. But drivers in Maryland continue to pay less than others in nearby states, WJZ's Tracey Leong reports.
"No one will even notice it at the pump. We are talking nine-tenths of a cent... That's less than a penny," said Christine Delise, AAA Mid-Atlantic.
With gas prices trending the lowest since 2005, some drivers don't mind the new tax.
"Gas has gone down a lot, so for it to go up a few cents really doesn't matter," said Rob Cooley, driver.
With this slight increase, Maryland's gas tax is still lower than some of its neighboring states.
Our rate is now 33.5 cents per gallon, right below North Carolina's 36 cents, even less than New York's 42 cents and significantly lower than Pennsylvania's 50 cents.
Even though this is the second time the state gas tax has increased in 2016, Maryland drivers are still paying about 50 cents less per gallon than the same time last year.
"That's awesome to see they are so low. I can just go up and go out and see my friends," said driver Ben Falcone.
AAA predicts a record number of 43 million Americans will be hitting the road this holiday weekend. The low prices at the pump are fueling the boost in drivers.
"I'm taking advantage of it. Maybe I might take that trip to Ocean City," said Cooley.
The next time Maryland's gas tax will go up is July 2017. The rate will be adjusted for inflation.
The national average for the state gas tax is about 30 cents.
