Washington, Illinois, North Dakota Prepare Gas Tax Increases

Several U.S. states are moving to raise gasoline taxes in 2025 to address transportation funding needs. Washington lawmakers approved a 6-cent gas tax increase, raising the state tax to 55.4 cents per gallon starting July 1, and implementing additional fee hikes to generate $3.2 billion for infrastructure. In North Dakota, legislators are debating a 5-cent gas tax hike, the first in 20 years, to fund road repairs, though critics argue the state could use existing reserves instead of asking more from consumers. Illinois drivers will also see a gas tax increase this July, with state and local taxes potentially exceeding 85 cents per gallon, making it one of the highest in the nation; lawmakers are also considering a vehicle mileage tax to further boost revenue. Supporters in each state argue the hikes are necessary to maintain roads and fulfill infrastructure promises, while opponents cite concerns about affordability and the burden on residents. These moves come as national gas prices have seen only modest increases, remaining lower than last year’s levels.