Senate Republicans Take Action to Lower Gas Prices as Supply Pressures Mount
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, March 23, 2026
PHOENIX, ARIZONA—With fuel supply disruptions looming and gas prices expected to rise, Senate Republicans are taking action to provide relief for Arizona drivers.
This week, Senator Shawnna Bolick will bring forward a strike everything amendment to HB 2400 in the Senate Regulatory Affairs & Government Efficiency Committee to quickly increase fuel supply during emergencies and help prevent price spikes at the pump.
Arizona relies heavily on out-of-state refineries for its fuel. With multiple California refineries shutting down, including another closure expected in April, supply constraints are expected to tighten. At the same time, Arizona is heading into the summer driving season, when Maricopa County must switch to a specialized fuel blend that is more expensive and harder to source.
Senator Bolick's amendment to HB 2400 requires the state to pursue an emergency fuel waiver from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, allowing access to additional fuel blends during times of shortage. Federal law already allows for these waivers under extreme supply conditions, but they must be requested. This proposal ensures Arizona takes timely action to secure relief when disruptions occur.
In 2023, Governor Katie Hobbs was warned that refinery shutdowns would significantly reduce Arizona's fuel supply, yet she refused to request an emergency fuel waiver from the federal government. Gas prices jumped by about $1 per gallon in a matter of weeks, costing Arizona families more at the pump. This legislation ensures Arizona is never left waiting on that kind of inaction again.
"Arizonans are tired of paying more at the pump because of supply issues outside our control," said Senator Bolick. "We see the warning signs. Refineries are shutting down, and if we don't act now, prices will go up. HB 2400 will make sure Arizona can quickly access additional fuel when shortages hit, instead of waiting and hoping for relief."
In addition, the committee will consider HB 2955, which updates Arizona's fuel standards to align more closely with federal reformulated gasoline, expanding supply options while maintaining compliance with air quality requirements. Together, these efforts are designed to give Arizona more flexibility in how fuel is sourced and supplied, helping stabilize prices and reduce the likelihood of sudden spikes.
"We are coordinating with the Trump Administration so Arizona is ready to act the moment these bills are signed into law," said Senator Bolick. "This is about getting ahead of the problem and making sure families aren't stuck paying the price for decisions made in other states."
The Senate Regulatory Affairs & Government Efficiency Committee will hear HB 2400 and HB 2955 on Wednesday at 9 a.m.
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus
kquintero@azleg.gov