STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX – House Republicans today passed a package of bills introduced by Majority Whip Julie Willoughby, including HB 2400, HB 2401, and HB 2696, advancing a multi-part effort to lower gas prices and ease the burden on Arizona families.

HB 2400 eliminates the 18-cent gas tax during the summer months when Maricopa and Pinal counties are required to use a higher-cost boutique fuel blend. HB 2401 requires a biennial review of fuel formulations and a report to state leaders to support future changes that reduce costs while meeting federal air quality standards. HB 2696 directs the Arizona Commerce Authority to prioritize reducing gas prices over the next two years, investigating options such as new pipelines and refineries to help Arizona secure its own fuel supply.

“Arizona families are struggling with rising costs, and the House Republicans are listening and taking action,” said House Majority Whip Julie Willoughby. “We are passing bills that lower prices and help hardworking families keep more of what they earn. We heard Arizonans, and we delivered.”

The bills advance House Republicans’ Majority Plan by focusing on affordability and helping families keep more of what they earn.

“This package reduces costs during the most expensive summer months, when Arizona’s special fuel blend is in place,” Majority Whip Willoughby said. “It also sets in motion the steps Arizona agencies should have taken years ago to free Arizonans from this boutique blend, including reviewing alternative options, documenting impacts, and working with the Environmental Protection Agency to put meaningful alternatives on the table. If you commute across the Valley, run a small business, or are raising a family on a budget, these bills are for you.”

The House also passed HB 2145, introduced by Representative Gail Griffin, which gives the Speaker of the House and President of the Senate authority to petition the federal government for an emergency fuel waiver during shortages. In March 2023, Governor Hobbs did not petition for a waiver after being informed of potential fuel shortages, leading to prices climbing as high as $5 per gallon in some areas.

The bills now move to the Senate for consideration.

Julie Willoughby is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 13 in Chandler, Gilbert, and Sun Lakes. She also serves as the House Majority Whip. Follow her on X at @JWilloughbyAZ.