Political theater

Republicans in West Virginia are still adamant in their opposition to a proposed gas tax holiday, a position that has been reiterated by Gov. Jim Justice.

During a virtual pandemic briefing last week, Justice once again declared that Republican lawmakers were opposed to the gas tax holiday concept. He also repeated his opposition to calling a special legislative session to consider a gas tax holiday or temporary suspension of the state’s gas tax. …

Democrats have been vocal on the issue, urging Justice to call a special legislative session to address the gas tax holiday. …

Of course, anything that would lower gas prices right now — even a temporary suspension of the gas tax — is a popular talking point. However, the downside to such a move would be a possible interruption in routine roadway maintenance efforts in the Mountain State if the gas tax revenue stream is disrupted. …

It is easy to argue that Democrats are being hypocritical here in their push for a gas tax holiday, as the green energy policies of their party is one of several factors contributing to the surging cost of gasoline. Some also point to President Joe Biden’s ill-advised decision on day one of his presidency to cancel the Keystone XL Pipeline project, along with Biden’s subsequent decision to pause new oil and gas activities on federal lands as contributing factors to the current woes that motorists are facing at the pump.

For now, don’t expect any movement on a gas tax holiday in West Virginia. The ongoing debate is mostly political theater.

However, Justice has indicated the door is still open to find some way to help ease the burden on residents, but a gas tax holiday does not seem to be an option.