Governor Josh Stein has enacted House Bill 3, which suspends North Carolina’s state gas tax, aiming to alleviate financial burdens for families statewide. Signed on October 9, 2026, this legislation is part of the governor’s broader initiative to address escalating costs of living.
“Rising grocery, utility, and gas prices are making the costs too high for people across our state,” Stein stated, emphasizing the necessity of providing temporary relief to residents. He expressed a commitment to collaborating with all stakeholders to enhance affordability throughout the year, beyond just the electoral cycle.
Measures to Alleviate Financial Pressure
In addition to the gas tax suspension, Governor Stein has taken other steps to mitigate rising costs. Recently, he instructed the North Carolina Department of Revenue to extend penalty relief related to the use of red-dyed diesel fuel until the end of 2026. This measure is particularly aimed at lessening financial pressures on farmers. Furthermore, Stein has successfully secured federal relief for the same fuel usage.
Stein’s strategy to improve living affordability includes several key initiatives. One major focus is increasing access to affordable housing. Earlier this year, he issued an executive order directing state agencies to collaborate on enhancing housing supply and affordability while utilizing technology for data-driven solutions. Recently, he signed two bills intended to reduce bureaucratic hurdles in housing development, which includes easing parking requirements and promoting factory-built housing and accessory dwelling units near employment hubs.
Healthcare and Utility Cost Initiatives
The governor is also addressing escalating healthcare expenses. In June, he established the Health Care Affordability Commission, comprised of healthcare experts—including providers, hospitals, insurers, and patient advocates—to devise effective strategies aimed at making healthcare more accessible. Additionally, he announced a historic $6.5 billion medical debt relief initiative, which benefits 2.5 million North Carolinians, marking the largest effort of its kind in the country.
Stein has worked to safeguard consumers from rising utility costs as well. He successfully advocated for the end of the sales tax exemption on electricity used by data centers and has opposed Duke Energy’s attempts to transfer utility costs to consumers. Through the Energy Saver NC program, which is now available across all counties in the state, families can receive rebates for home efficiency improvements and high-efficiency appliances, potentially saving up to $1,000 on their utility bills annually.
Child Care System Support
Furthermore, in a move to stabilize the child care sector, Stein signed a budget in July that allocates $160 million for child care subsidies, making it easier for parents to secure care for their children. This budget also introduced a unique statewide subsidy reimbursement rate floor aimed at providing consistent support for families.
These initiatives reflect Governor Stein’s commitment to addressing the financial challenges faced by North Carolinians and his ongoing efforts to create a more affordable living environment across the state.
Source: Office of the Governor of North Carolina
