Washington Republicans urge Gov. Ferguson to call special session on gas prices
Jul 8, 2026, 4:18 PM | Updated: 4:19 pm
A gas pump is seen in a vehicle. (Photo: Brandon Bell, Getty Images)
(Photo: Brandon Bell, Getty Images)
Washington Senate Republicans are formally asking Washington Governor Bob Ferguson to call a special legislative session to lower gas prices across the state.
If they get a special session, Republicans will have to convince a majority of Democrats to temporarily pause the state gas tax.
“These are really tough times for just about everybody in the state of Washington when it comes to providing for their families and just getting around with their day-to-day lives,” Republican Senator Jeff Wilson said.
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Washington’s gas tax adds around 60 cents per gallon as part of the state’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA) to reduce carbon emissions. Revenue from the CCA is invested into programs to reduce Washington’s carbon footprint and create a healthier climate, according to the Washington State Department of Commerce.
Republican Senator Judy Warnick is leading the legislative push to address fuel prices.
“We cannot afford to wait until the next regular legislative session while our families choose between putting food on the table or putting gas in their tanks,” Warnick said in a statement. “The time for leadership is now. Our state’s own policies have artificially inflated prices, leaving Washingtonians paying some of the highest fuel costs in the nation. We are demanding a special session to deliver immediate economic relief.”
Warnick argued the burden falls disproportionately on rural communities and the agricultural sector, as rural residents lack public transport options.
However, the push by state Republicans may be an uphill battle as oil prices rose in the wake of President Donald Trump declaring the U.S.-Iran ceasefire is now over.
The average price in Washington for a gallon of gas is $5, while the national average sits at $3.76, according to AAA. California is the only state with higher average gas prices at $5.34.
Contributing: Julia Dallas, MyNorthwest
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