White House "Decision on Fuel Tax Suspension Expected by Weekend"

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] The White House announced on the 21st (local time) that President Joe Biden is expected to decide by the weekend whether to temporarily waive the fuel tax as part of measures to address soaring oil prices. It also urged legislative action at the congressional level.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said at a briefing that "President Biden has made it clear that he will take all measures to ease the pain of American households, and that all options are on the table," adding, "Although President Biden has not yet made a decision, there will be more announcements by this weekend."

When asked whether there is contact with Congress regarding the temporary fuel tax waiver, she said, "Of course, Congress must also take action." To temporarily waive the fuel tax of 18.3 cents per gallon, congressional action is required. Earlier, President Biden also said during a meeting with reporters at Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, that he is considering a temporary fuel tax waiver and "hopes to make a decision by this weekend."

The temporary fuel tax waiver is a measure taken amid fierce criticism of President Biden's responsibility due to the worst inflation in 41 years ahead of the November midterm elections. Gasoline prices in the U.S. have surged from the $3 range per gallon just a year ago to around $5 recently. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), as of this date, the national average gasoline price in the U.S. was $4.968 per gallon. In California, it was $6.382 per gallon.

Jean-Pierre drew a line regarding the possibility of a meeting between President Biden and oil company CEOs. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm is scheduled to meet with seven oil company CEOs on the 23rd. Jean-Pierre added, "We hope a good solution will come out of this meeting."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.