Mississippi Agriculture Commissioner Andy Gipson is calling on Gov. Tate Reeves to declare a state of emergency over high fuel costs.
Gipson on Tuesday urged local leaders to consider following in the footsteps of other states in considering temporary measures to provide relief from rising gasoline and diesel prices. According to AAA, the average cost for a gallon of regular fuel in Mississippi is $3.99, with the price of diesel averaging $5.99.
As affordability remains a concern nationally, and especially in Mississippi — one of the most impoverished states — Gipson said drastic action needs to be taken to help local workers, farmers, and even the timber industry. The timber industry is currently in its peak harvest season.
“On behalf of the working people of Mississippi, I encourage the Governor to review and act as necessary to provide fuel tax relief for Mississippians,” Gipson said. “If there are construction projects that may be affected, this relief can include calling the Legislature into special session to approve projects as well as special temporary provisions to provide whatever relief we can muster to help our people get through these crushing fuel prices.”
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Specifically, Gipson suggested declaring an economic emergency that would temporarily suspend the state’s tax on gasoline and diesel and allow farmers and loggers to use off-road diesel to expand available supply. Using off-road diesel to fuel motor vehicles traveling on public roads is illegal and only allowed to be used in construction machinery, logging equipment, tractors, and related vessels.
If Mississippi removes this regulation, it would join nearby states like Alabama, Louisiana, and Texas, whose governors have lifted some restrictions to help lower fuel costs.
“These fuel prices are breaking the backbone of Mississippi’s economy,” Gipson said. “We have been dealing with this for several months. Our farmers, loggers and working people cannot endure much more of this. Other states have put similar orders in place. Our neighbors Louisiana and Alabama have done this, and I believe it’s time for Mississippi to act. I appreciate the Governor’s office looking into any and all options for relief as soon as possible.”
Gov. Tate Reeves has not publicly weighed in on the agriculture commissioner’s request at this time.