Utah lawmakers say drivers in the Beehive State deserve a fair deal at the pump. Rep. Cal Roberts joined the House Rules podcast to explain why gas prices are higher in Utah than in neighboring states and how the Legislature plans to bring prices down for families.
“Gas prices are too high in Utah,” Roberts said. In fact, Utah drivers pay more than the national average even though the state refines more fuel than it uses. “We produce one and a half times the amount of fuel than we consume,” Roberts added.
Utah refineries manufacture about 227,000 barrels per day, yet as much as 30 to 40 percent of that fuel is shipped to Washington, Idaho and Nevada. That means Utahns bear the full burden of refinery-related impacts on roads and air quality while other states benefit from lower pump prices. Drivers often see the difference firsthand.
According to Roberts, Utahns can fill up in San Juan County for $3.44 a gallon, then cross the state line into Colorado and pay $2.96 for the same tank of gas.
Roberts said the Legislature’s goal is straightforward: lower the gas tax to cut prices for Utah families.
“We want to lower the gas tax and we want to lower it by 25 to 50 percent,” he said. “That puts another three, four, $500 in every Utah family’s pocket.”
That savings translates to roughly 10 to 20 cents per gallon. To do that, lawmakers are evaluating refinery tax policies.
For decades, Utah has supported the oil and gas industry with credits and exemptions to strengthen local production. Roberts said those tools have worked.
“We are a number nine producer in the whole country,” he said. “We need a fair deal for the Utah taxpayer and the Utah consumer.”
Federal energy policy is also playing a role. Roberts said national increases in production have strengthened the market.
“President Trump has unleashed American energy,” Roberts said.
Crude oil prices have dropped 20 percent over the past year, but Utah gas prices have only fallen 2 percent. Where has that 18-point gap gone? “It is not going in your pocket,” Roberts said. “It is not going in my pocket. It is going in their pockets.”
Roberts said the bottom line is simple: affordability remains the House Majority’s top priority.
“I think if you are a kid born in Utah, you are educated in Utah, you ought to be able to afford to live in Utah and to stay in Utah and to build your life and family here,” he added.
The Legislature plans to continue working with oil and gas producers to keep the industry strong while ensuring Utahns get a better deal whenever they fill up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Utah gas prices higher than surrounding states?
Utah refines more fuel than it uses but ships much of it to higher-priced West Coast markets, raising prices for families here.
How much fuel do Utah refineries produce?
Utah refineries have the ability to process about 209,000 barrels per day (EIA). Rep. Roberts noted production of roughly 227,000 barrels per day.
What kind of savings could Utah families see?
Lowering the gas tax by 25–50% could reduce prices by 10–20 cents per gallon, saving families an estimated $300–$500 annually.
What is the Legislature’s goal?
To lower costs at the pump while keeping the oil and gas industry strong so Utah families see more of the value produced here.
Why focus on affordability?
High costs impact housing, transportation, and everyday essentials. Lawmakers say keeping life affordable ensures Utahns can continue building their future in the state they love.