North Carolina suspends 41-cent gas tax through November 2026

North Carolina has implemented a temporary suspension of its 41-cent-per-gallon motor fuel tax through November 30, 2026. The Relief at the Pump Act, signed by Governor Josh Stein, applies to gasoline, diesel, and alternative fuels to provide financial relief to families and farmers facing high fuel costs.

Attorney General Jeff Jackson has launched ‘N.C. Fuel Check,’ a consumer reporting tool designed to ensure retailers pass the tax savings on to drivers. Jackson warned that gas stations failing to lower prices as they receive new, untaxed inventory could face penalties of up to $5,000 per transaction. While savings may not be immediate due to existing inventory, the state expects the impact to be visible within a week as new shipments arrive.

Legislative debate surrounded the measure, with Democrats questioning the timing of the special session used to pass the bill. The North Carolina Department of Transportation estimates the 30-day pause could result in a $225 million loss in state transportation funding.