Two South Bend Common Council members are calling on Indiana’s governor to provide relief as gas prices continue to climb.

Council members Oliver Davis and Sherry Bolden-Simpson sent a letter Monday to Governor Mike Braun, urging him to temporarily suspend the state’s gasoline tax.

In the letter, the Democratic council members say the combined burden of state and federal fuel taxes—now topping 70 cents per gallon—is putting a strain on working families. They argue that rising costs are making it harder for residents to afford daily commutes and basic transportation needs.

As of March 2026, Indiana’s gasoline excise tax remains at 36 cents per gallon, with additional costs driven by the state’s sales tax. Locally, gas prices in South Bend are averaging around $3.80 per gallon, with some stations exceeding $4.19.

The council members acknowledged the importance of funding infrastructure but say the current economic pressure on Hoosier households requires immediate action.

They also noted that Governor Braun has not ruled out suspending the gas tax if prices continue to rise, and pointed to other states exploring similar relief measures.

The letter urges the governor to pause Indiana’s gas tax until fuel prices stabilize.