RALEIGH, N.C. (NCN News) –- Are the savings from the suspension of the state’s 41 cent a gallon gas tax being passed on at the pump? State Attorney General Jeff Jackson says he is investigating some consumer complaints.
Jackson announced that his office has launched its first round of inquiries into 31 gas stations following consumer complaints about retailers potentially failing to pass along North Carolina’s temporary gas tax savings to drivers.
The 31 gas stations represent the first round of inquiries, with additional stations expected to receive inquiries next week.
“Any gas station not passing their tax savings onto customers is violating the law, and we are reviewing every single complaint we receive,” said Jackson. “Escalation letters have started going out and we are expecting a prompt explanation from each gas station we contact. More escalations are coming. We appreciate everyone who is keeping our office informed about the prices that they’re seeing. You are our eyes and ears, and we are acting on your reports.”
For these 31 stations, the department has now initiated the first step of an inquiry: notifying them of the concerns, requesting a prompt explanation of their pricing practices, and making clear that the state intends to enforce this law. These inquiries are ongoing, and receiving a letter does not mean a station has been found to have violated the law.
Earlier this month, the General Assembly passed and Gov. Josh Stein signed into law Session Law 2026-62, which suspends the state’s 41-cent-per-gallon tax on gasoline and diesel starting Oct. 10 and lasting through Nov. 30.
Following the suspension, Attorney General Jackson put gas retailers on notice that the law requires those savings to reach consumers. He also launched N.C. Fuel Check so drivers can report retailers they believe are not passing along the savings to their customers.
The Department of Justice is continuing to review consumer complaints and identify additional stations for inquiries.
Drivers can still report gas stations they believe are breaking the law using the North Carolina Department of Justice’s dedicated reporting page: ncdoj.gov/ncfuelcheck. Consumers can also call 1-877-5-NO-SCAM.
Reports should include:
1. Station’s name and address.
2. Date and time of the visit.
3. Price per gallon.
4. Grade of the fuel at the station.
5. A photo of the price sign and the receipt.
6. A detailed explanation of why you believe the savings weren’t passed on.
7. Prices at nearby stations, if you noticed them.
Additional supporting documentation