Illinois drivers face the second highest gas taxes in the nation at 66.5 cents per gallon, adding to their financial strain amid rising oil prices and high taxes across other areas.
Illinois Gas Taxes Second Highest in U.S. – Drivers Face Increased Costs Amid Rising Oil Prices
The Washington Examiner reports that Illinois drivers are struggling with some of the highest gas taxes in the nation, reaching 66.5 cents per gallon, surpassed only by California. These high taxes, combined with increasing oil prices due to Middle Eastern tensions, are driving up fuel costs even more. In comparison, nearby states like Missouri, Iowa, and Kentucky have significantly lower gas taxes, ranging from 18 to 30 cents per gallon.
The recent increase in Illinois’ gas tax means drivers now pay about $184 more yearly than before 2019. This increase came from a plan that doubled the tax and added yearly hikes tied to inflation. State Representative Dan Caulkins has asked for a freeze on the gas tax, saying it adds financial stress for drivers during times of inflation.
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66.5 Cents/Gallon: Illinois Gas Tax Rates Skyrocket – Highest in the Nation after California (PHOTO: WQAD)
Illinois Adds Sales Tax to Gasoline, Contributing to State’s High Tax Burden on Residents
Illinois also adds a sales tax on top of the gas tax, making the total cost of gas even higher. The state is also high on other tax lists, including property and corporate income taxes. Dylan Sharkey from the Illinois Policy Institute points out that these high taxes are affecting residents in many ways, showing a pattern of high taxes across the state.
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