A bill signed into law by North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein will create a temporary exemption from taxes on fuel in the Tar Heel State.
"Rising grocery, utility, and gas prices are making the costs too high for people across our state," said Stein in a news release on the bill's signing. "I am signing this bill to keep more money in people’s wallets, but this temporary relief is just one step. I remain committed to continuing to work with anyone who wants to make everyday living more affordable all year long – not just during election season."
Signed Friday, Oct. 9, tax exemptions from the new bill will apply to all fuel in N.C., aiming to provide some relief from the financial strain many Americans are feeling in the face of fluctuating and unusually
high gas prices.
Here's what to know.
What does the "Relief at the Pump" law, NC House Bill 3, do?
N.C.'s House Bill 3, also known as the "Relief at the Pump" bill, temporarily eliminates the state's motor fuel tax, replacing the lost revenue with reserve funds. The bill, which essentially creates a temporary tax holiday in N.C., aims to ease some of the economic strain felt by many state residents caused by high gas prices.
The bill also allows farmers and certain agricultural fuel users to use dyed diesel on highways without penalties, and allows some such users a temporary exemption from diesel fuel taxes.
Was the Relief at the Pump bill passed?
Yes. NC Gov. Josh Stein signed HB3 into law on Friday, Oct. 9.
Are North Carolina gas taxes suspended?
The Relief at the Pump suspends North Carolina's motor fuel excise tax beginning the day after the bill becomes law, meaning the suspension will begin Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026.
How long are gas taxes suspended in North Carolina?
The bill ordered the suspension through Nov. 30, 2026.
What is the gas tax rate in North Carolina?
According to the N.C. Department of Revenue website, the normal gas tax rate in North Carolina from Jan. 1-Dec. 31 is 41 cents per gallon.
What is the average cost of gas in North Carolina? Asheville?
According to the American Automobile Association, the average cost of gas in NC as of Oct. 9, 2026 is roughly $4.097 per gallon, slightly lower than the national average of $4.372. In the Asheville area, the average cost was found to be roughly $4.098 per gallon.
Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at iseaton@citizentimes.com.
This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Stein signs 'Relief at the Pump' act. When NC fuel prices will go down
