US lawmakers propose ending 12% excise tax on heavy-duty trucks (updated)

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02/06/2026 19:05

 (Adds details, comments from lawmakers in paragraphs 3-6)
    By David Shepardson
       WASHINGTON, June 2 (Reuters) - Two U.S. senators on
Tuesday proposed ending the 12% federal excise tax on heavy-duty
trucks, saying it could boost sales of newer, cleaner models.
    Republican Senator Todd Young and Democratic Senator Angela
Alsobrooks noted the tax adds $15,000 to $30,000 to the cost of
a new heavy truck, trailer, semitrailer chassis or tractor and
encourages continued use of older vehicles.
    About one-fifth of the largest trucks on the road have
engines produced before 2010. 
  
    Alsobrooks said the bill supports "a modern trucking
industry allowing for the adoption of newer trucks that are
safer and more fuel-efficient."
  
    The tax raises more than $6 billion annually that is
dedicated to building and repairing roads. Congress has
struggled for years to find new revenue for road repairs. 
  
    Truckers are also facing sharply higher diesel costs due to
the price spike following the start of the Iran war.
  



 (Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
 ((David.Shepardson@thomsonreuters.com; 2028988324;))