Gas prices were already too high in Warren County before the recent war began with Iran.

The situation has only gotten worse in the past two weeks. Gas prices in Warren County are among the highest in the state at $3.790, second only to Mifflin County’s $3.797, according to the AAA.

The national average of a gallon of gas is $3.539 as of Tuesday, while the state average is $3.644.

Inflation has been a problem long before the bombing began in Iran, but the situation is becoming more acute in the wake of the Iran attacks.

Pennsylvania motorists currently pay one of the highest fuel taxes in the nation. The state gasoline tax is 57.6 cents per gallon, while the diesel tax is approximately 74 cents per gallon. It’s time for the state Legislature to consider a temporary suspension of the gas tax. There are varying proposals to do so, including one being drafted by Sen. Lisa Boscola, D-Bethlehem, for a 60-day suspension of gas and diesel taxes. to provide relief for consumers and businesses facing rising fuel costs. Boscola also proposes bonding to make up for the lost revenue the state won’t receive from the gas tax suspension.

Affordability is a problem for many families in Warren County and throughout the state. It’s a message we’re sure state lawmakers are hearing when they’re talking with constituents in their districts. That means Boscola’s proposal isn’t likely to be the only proposal for a gas tax holiday to be introduced. In our view a temporary break from the gas tax is only worthwhile if it actually provides a break to both consumers and on transportation-related costs paid by consumers.

But if the state is going to take action, it needs to do so quickly rather than waiting for months.