Dutchess County Legislature Advances Proposal for Tax Relief at the Pump
Resolution Would Cap County's Sales Tax, Helping Consumers This Summer and Beyond

The Budget Committee of the Dutchess County Legislature voted unanimously on Thursday to advance a resolution that would cap the County's sales tax on gasoline and highway diesel at $3.00 per gallon starting June 1st.

Chair Yvette Valdés Smith (D-Fishkill) said, “The hardworking people of Dutchess County are hurting. The leadership of the Republican federal administration has been a disaster for everyone who’s not a millionaire or a billionaire. Whether it’s tariffs driving up the cost of goods, disastrous energy and environmental policies skyrocketing our energy and utility bills, or irresponsible and downright dangerous foreign policy like the War in Iran, which has caused our gas prices to go up more than a dollar in barely a month. This Legislature cannot allow the County to profit off of the people’s pain.”

“As the economy heads toward possible recession and inflation rises, this reduction is both necessary and prudent to help the working people of Dutchess County. It provides relief now while preserving the county’s ability to deliver the services we will need in these troubling times,” said Assistant Majority Leader Kristofer Munn (D-Red Hook).

“I hear daily about rising costs affecting families in my district and our county. People are having to choose between groceries, childcare, and transportation. These are impossible decisions to make, and this will help ease their burden,” said Legislator Emma Arnoff (D-LaGrange)

“There's no reason for the county to profit off this spike in gas prices, and it’s more important that we reduce our high cost of living in any way we can,” said Legislator Eric Alexander (D-Amenia).

“Families across Dutchess County are already feeling the strain of rising fuel costs. Although we did not create this situation, we can take a step to relieve some pain at the pump. This measure is responsible, sustainable, and ensures we are not passing burdens created from the Middle East war off the backs of our constituents. Even modest savings at the pump make a real difference, and it is our responsibility to provide relief where we can,” said Legislator Anna Shah (D-Town of Poughkeepsie).

Majority Leader Barrington Atkins (D-Poughkeepsie) added, “This resolution passing in committee is more than a step forward; it is a statement. We are not going to sit back while working families continue to get squeezed. People are doing everything right and still falling behind, and that demands action. Government should not be in the business of benefiting from rising gas prices while our residents struggle to keep up. This is about fairness, accountability, and standing firmly with the people we serve. Today, we made it clear that we are choosing relief over inaction.”

The resolution will be voted on at the April 13 Board Meeting of the County Legislature and is expected to take effect June 1, 2026, pending approval from the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance.