States Temporarily Suspend Fuel Tax Rules for Hurricane Relief Efforts

In response to the devastation caused by Hurricanes Milton and Helene, several states have temporarily lifted fuel tax requirements to facilitate the swift delivery of aid to affected areas. Illinois, Maryland, Alabama, Tennessee, and North Carolina have all waived registration mandates under the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) and other fuel tax regulations to help motor carriers involved in hurricane relief efforts.

Illinois Leads with IFTA Waiver

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker announced a temporary suspension of IFTA requirements and the motor fuel use tax (MFUT) from October 11 to November 9. This waiver aims to accelerate relief efforts by removing the need for single-trip permitting for qualified vehicles delivering aid to areas impacted by the hurricanes. Pritzker emphasized the importance of supporting recovery efforts, stating, “We’re here to support ongoing relief efforts in any way we can.”

According to the Illinois Department of Revenue, the waiver applies to vehicles traveling through the state to provide assistance in designated emergency areas. Those taking advantage of the waiver will not face penalties for IFTA or MFUT non-registration as long as they provide adequate proof of their emergency destination. The order specifies that carriers must properly register for IFTA or obtain single-trip permits if their travel extends beyond the waiver’s scope.

Maryland and Alabama Follow Suit

Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman also announced a temporary waiver on October 10, which will remain in effect until November 10. The waiver applies to IFTA licensing and decal requirements for motor carriers transporting essential supplies and personnel for Hurricane Milton recovery, such as utility service restoration teams.

Similarly, Alabama took action in late September, with Alabama Department of Revenue Commissioner Vernon Barnett suspending International Registration Plan (IRP) and IFTA requirements for 30 days. The state’s waiver extends through October 27, offering flexibility for vehicles providing disaster assistance across state lines.

Tennessee and North Carolina Join Relief Efforts

Tennessee’s Department of Revenue implemented comparable measures, waiving IRP and IFTA requirements until October 30. These waivers apply to vehicles involved in hurricane relief or those passing through Tennessee to assist other states.

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper issued exemptions from state quarterly fuel tax return filings on September 25. Cooper’s order allows non-IRP and non-IFTA participants to travel through the state without facing penalties.

Florida Responds to Fuel Shortages

While several states focus on waiving tax requirements, Florida has taken steps to address critical fuel shortages in the wake of the hurricanes. The Florida Department of Transportation has temporarily lifted weight restrictions, allowing emergency response vehicles, including utility trucks, to bypass weigh stations.

In addition, the Florida Highway Patrol has been escorting fuel trucks to areas where supplies are critically low. These escorts have helped ensure that fuel reaches public sites in key locations like St. Petersburg, Bradenton, and Plant City without delays. State police have also been managing traffic at the Port of Tampa Bay to facilitate the timely delivery of fuel.

This coordinated effort across multiple states aims to streamline the movement of supplies and equipment critical for hurricane recovery, ensuring that fuel, aid, and essential services reach impacted areas as quickly as possible.

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Source:

https://www.ttnews.com/articles/states-lift-fuel-tax-rules