New York State Assemblyman Rob Walker (R, C, I, WF- Hicksville) joined his fellow Republican colleagues in announcing the start of a petition drive aimed at bringing to the Assembly Floor legislation the Assemblyman introduced which would suspend the state taxes on gasoline from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

"This petition drive has only one purpose; to show the public's support for my legislation and move the legislation out of committee so that the Assembly may vote on it just as the Senate has already done," said Walker. "As with most legislation, there needs to be a visible groundswell of support for this idea for it to pass through the Assembly. Polls show that nearly 70 percent of New York taxpayers want this legislation to pass, but until the public uses their voice, taxpayers will be forced to pay higher gas prices at the pump throughout the summer months."

Walker's legislation will suspend the three taxes, which the state currently puts on gasoline sales. For each gallon of gas sold in New York, the state applies an 8 cents sales tax, an 8 cents motor fuel tax, and a 16 cent petroleum business tax, for a total of 32 cents. In addition to those thirty-two cents, there is also a 4 cents tax that goes to the counties to use at their discretion. This legislation will also allow counties the right to opt in and eliminate their gas tax as well.

To sign the petition, visit www.nygastaxholiday.com and electronically sign the petition. You can also go to Assemblyman Rob Walker's district office at 111 Levittown Parkway, Hicksville and sign the petition in person. If you have any questions, please feel free to also contact Assemblyman Walker at 937-3571.