Utah families are already struggling with high gas prices—but a new proposal at the state Capitol could make things worse and hurt the very industry that keeps our economy running.

Right now, Utah refineries receive a tax exemption on gasoline they export to other states. It’s a smart, long-standing policy that encourages in-state production, keeps our energy economy strong, and helps ensure we’re not relying on out-of-state fuel sources.

But now, some lawmakers want to end that exemption—adding new taxes to fuel shipments leaving Utah. Their plan is to tax the fuel refineries export, and in exchange, slightly reduce the gas tax drivers pay at the pump. There’s no proof this would actually lower prices for Utah drivers—but it would create new costs and red tape for the energy producers who power our state.

Utah’s refining industry supports thousands of good-paying jobs and plays a critical role in regional fuel supply. Punishing them with new taxes—just because they export fuel—is short-sighted. These companies are already dealing with global instability, market pressures, and growing regulatory burdens. The last thing we need is more government interference in an industry that keeps Utah running.

Even the Utah Petroleum Association has warned that these kinds of tax changes come with serious consequences. Once added, new taxes rarely go away—and they could discourage future investment in our state’s energy sector.

We need to support energy producers, not punish them. Let’s keep fuel production strong, protect jobs, and push back on unnecessary tax hikes.

Sign this petition to tell lawmakers: don’t kill refinery jobs with new fuel taxes. Keep the exemption in place, and stop using Utah’s energy economy as a political tool.