---
title: "Benson Open to Cutting Michigan State Gas Tax"
url: https://www.heregrandrapids.com/2026/11/05/benson-open-to-cutting-michigan-gas-tax/
date: 2026-11-05T09:44:13-05:00
modified: 2026-11-05T09:44:13-05:00
author: "HERE City State Desk"
categories: ["Politics"]
site: "HERE Grand Rapids"
attribution: "HERE Grand Rapids"
---

# Benson Open to Cutting Michigan State Gas Tax

> LANSING, Mich. — Governor-elect Jocelyn Benson said at her first post-election news conference that she is open to cutting Michigans state gasoline tax to give drivers relief at the pump. The stance marks a shift from her earlier campaign warning that pausing the states roughly 52-cent-per-gallon levy would blow a hole in the budget and

*Source: [HERE Grand Rapids](https://www.heregrandrapids.com/2026/11/05/benson-open-to-cutting-michigan-gas-tax/) — November 5, 2026 by HERE City State Desk*

LANSING, Mich. — Governor-elect Jocelyn Benson said at her first post-election news conference that she is open to cutting Michigans state gasoline tax to give drivers relief at the pump.

The stance marks a shift from her earlier campaign warning that pausing the states roughly 52-cent-per-gallon levy would blow a hole in the budget and stall road and bridge work. Benson has blamed high regional fuel prices in part on the war in Iran and has also backed a temporary pause of the federal 18.4-cent fuel levy.

She said she cares more about lower prices than who gets credit for them. The comment came as she outlined early cost-cutting priorities after defeating Republican John James and preparing to take office Jan. 1, 2027, with Democrats positioned to control both legislative chambers.

Any gas-tax cut would need legislative approval and a plan to replace road money. Benson has separately pledged not to raise middle-class taxes and said her transition team will hunt for quick steps that lower monthly bills once she is sworn in.