Governor Mike Braun Declares Statewide Energy Emergency and Extends Gas Tax Suspension

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Indiana Governor Mike Braun issued a formal Declaration of Energy Emergency and signed Executive Order 26-19, extending the suspension of the state’s 34-cent-per-gallon gasoline excise tax through September 5, 2026.

Providing Immediate Fuel Cost Relief for Commuters and Agriculture

The executive action utilizes state reserve funds to backstop the Motor Vehicle Highway Account, ensuring municipal road resurfacing budgets remain fully funded while saving Hoosier motorists an estimated $45 million at the pump over the Labor Day travel period. Governor Braun also mobilized $10 million in emergency disaster relief grants through the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) for homeowners impacted by severe mid-August flood damage in Southern Indiana.

Governor Braun stated that rising fuel costs place unnecessary burdens on working families, farmers harvesting crops, and small businesses, affirming the state’s proactive tax relief measures.

Agricultural Associations and Transportation Reactions

The Indiana Farm Bureau commended the gas tax suspension during peak grain transport preparations ahead of autumn harvest.

Highway construction associations confirmed that state reserve transfers fully insulate local road maintenance contracts from revenue shortfalls.

Executive Order Duration

The gasoline tax suspension remains in effect through 11:59 PM on September 5, 2026.