Legislature Passes Gas Sales Tax Cap Extension

POUGHKEEPSIE – At the October Legislative Board meeting last week, the Dutchess County Legislature voted unanimously to pass a resolution to extend the cap on the County’s sales tax on gasoline and highway diesel at $3.00 per gallon. The current gas tax cap expires December 1, 2026.

Chair Yvette Valdés Smith (D-Fishkill) said, “I am proud to have passed this resolution to extend the gas sales tax cap. All of our prices in Dutchess are too high, including the price of gas and diesel. Capping our county’s sales tax on gas and diesel helps put money back into our residents’ pockets. This Legislature does not stand idly by and allow the County to profit off of working people.”

“Our job as legislators is to find every opportunity to make life more affordable for our constituents, capping the gas sales tax does this. This money belongs to the hard working Dutchess County residents.” said Legislator Emma Arnoff (D-LaGrange).

Legislator Trevor Redl (D-Town of Poughkeepsie) added, “Our residents are struggling from higher fuel prices driving increased costs, and I am happy to cap the gas tax to ensure this money stays in residents’ pockets.”

“At a time when Donald Trump’s war in Iran has driven up the price of gas for all Americans, Dutchess County should not add even more pain at the pump. I’m voting to cap the gas tax, because when times are this hard, Dutchess County residents deserve a county government that has their backs,” said Legislator Lisa Kaul (D-Town of Poughkeepsie).

The resolution is expected to take effect December 1, 2026, pending approval.