Rep. Russo Introduces Resolution Calling for End to Iran War as Gas Prices Continue to Spike

COLUMBUS — State Representative Allison Russo (D-Columbus) today introduced a House Concurrent Resolution (HCR) calling on President Donald Trump to end the war in Iran and lower gas prices for Ohioans. In a week where lawmakers are considering a 90-day gas tax holiday, Ohio House Democrats are highlighting the connection between the immediate relief Ohioans need at the gas pump with the international conflict that has sent oil and gasoline prices skyrocketing. 

“Ohioans are paying more at the gas pump, because President Trump has embroiled us in a reckless war with Iran that has unnecessarily killed American soldiers and created chaos and shortages in U.S. fuel supplies,” said Rep. Russo. “If we are serious about making life more affordable for everyday Ohioans, Ohio lawmakers have an obligation to call for the President to end this war that is harming our families and our communities and driving gas prices up in the first place.”

The HCR calls on President Trump to end the war in Iran, which the resolution identifies as a major driver of the surge in oil prices and the resulting increase in gasoline prices. The amendment also recognizes the human cost of the conflict. According to the resolution, three Ohio service members have been killed during the war, alongside other U.S. service members whose lives remain at risk in the region.

Ohio's average regular gasoline price increased from $2.89 per gallon the week of February 23, 2026, to $4.48 the week of September 21, 2026 — a 55.11% increase in just over six months.

This week, Ohio lawmakers are considering legislation to temporarily suspend the state's 38.5-cent-per-gallon gasoline tax and 47-cent-per-gallon diesel tax for 90 days, which was first proposed by Gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton. The tax holiday could provide relief to Ohio drivers, truckers and small businesses as families struggle with higher fuel costs, though it is unclear how much the tax cut will actually decrease fuel costs at the pump.

A state gas tax suspension changes the amount Ohioans pay in state taxes. However, this tax cut does not lower the underlying price of fuel. Ending the conflict with Iran would address one of the major factors driving fuel price increases experienced by Ohioans this year.