The latest breaking updates, delivered straight to your email inbox.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear is providing some relief at the pump for drivers.

Beshear filed an emergency regulation Thursday that freezes the state gas tax, preventing a 2-cent increase per gallon that would have taken effect July 1.

“Kentuckians cannot afford to pay more, and I am committed to doing everything I can to help keep more dollars in people’s pockets,” Beshear said in a statement. “This law was never intended to hurt Kentuckians during tough times, but with rising prices and inflation, this increase would have a negative impact on our families and it is time to take action.”

The state gas tax was set to go up from its current rate at 26 cents, causing an increase at regular and diesel fuel pumps.

Instead, the governor will reduce Road Fund revenues to make up for the lost revenue.

To make up for lost road fund revenues, Beshear is proposing funds from the upcoming General Fund budget surplus.

“This action to provide relief to Kentuckians will have no material impact on the transportation budget and projects,” Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray said in a statement “All projects will move forward.”

Beshear also stated that he has sent a letter to Attorney General Daniel Cameron Thursday asking for advice on whether he should declare a state of emergency in order to activate the price gouging statute and further protect Kentuckians.

Hearst Television participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.