Gasoline Consumption Down on Fuel Efficiency and Covid 

A research brief published by the Independent Fiscal Office analyzed post-pandemic gasoline consumption trends. The report notes that pre-2020, gasoline consumption was trending downward primarily due to improved fuel efficiency; the pandemic accelerated this reduction with hybrid or full-time work-from-home schedules.  

While gasoline consumption declined 15% during the pandemic and has partially recovered, it remains below pre-pandemic levels, while diesel fuel consumption has fully recovered. High fuel prices contributed to reduced discretionary travel.  At the same time, the number of vehicles on the roads continues to climb and miles travelled now exceeds 100 billion miles annually. The report notes that gasoline taxes fund 55% of state road and bridge construction. Liquid fuels funds that townships receive each year are solely funded by the gas tax. Click here to read the brief.