Gas Tax Suspension Passes Senate

Story Published: May 7, 2008 at 11:46 PM EDT

Story Updated: May 7, 2008 at 11:46 PM EDT

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - The New York Senate votes to pass legislation that would suspend state gas taxes for the summer. The measure is opposed by the Assembly and Governor David Paterson.

The Republican-sponsored bill would eliminate the state gas tax between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day. The Senate passed the measure 46-to-15 on Wednesday.

The proposal comes as the federal government and presidential candidates are debating a federal "holiday" from gas taxes.

Senate Republicans claim the bill would save New Yorkers about 32 cents per gallon in state petroleum business, sales and motor fuel excise taxes.

Opponents say they don't trust the oil industry not to jack up prices to eliminate any savings.

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