Special Committee Explores Relief From Gas Tax Hike

Members are hearing from a variety of energy experts, including a petroleum industry economist gave a brief explanation of oil supply and demand, prices and how the profits are tied into that.

Lawmakers are looking for ways to relieve the strain of gas and home heating costs affecting North Carolina residents. Some committee members are considering asking for a freeze on the state's gas tax, which recently increased by 3 cents a gallon.

By itself, the committee does not have any power. The most it can do is offer recommendations on how to solve the issue. The commitee cannot call for the special session of the state Legislature needed to make changes to the gas tax.