Doug Ford Gas Tax Cut Brings Major Relief for Ontario Drivers
The Doug Ford gas tax cut is now permanent, bringing long-term savings for Ontario drivers. Starting June 1, 2025, the provincial government will eliminate tolls on the eastern section of Highway 407, while making the 5.7-cent per liter gas tax cut permanent. This move fulfills a key campaign promise by Premier Doug Ford and aims to help families and businesses cope with rising living costs.
What Does the Doug Ford Gas Tax Cut Include?
The Doug Ford gas tax cut includes two major changes:
- Permanent 5.7¢/L gas tax reduction, first introduced in 2022
- Toll removal on the 43-kilometer provincially owned stretch of Highway 407 East, from Brock Road in Pickering to Highway 35/115 north of Clarington
This decision is expected to save drivers up to $7,200 annually and cost the provincial treasury around $72 million each year.
Why Is This Important Now?
With inflation, fuel prices, and cross-border tariffs all climbing, many Ontarians are looking for financial relief. Doug Ford addressed these concerns during his announcement:
“Families and business owners are worried about rising costs, especially with U.S. tariffs driving up prices on everyday essentials. That’s why we’re making the gas tax cut permanent and removing tolls from Highway 407 East,” Ford said.
Which Part of Highway 407 Is Toll-Free Now?
Only the provincially operated section of Highway 407 East will become toll-free. Here’s how it breaks down:
Toll-Free (as of June 1, 2025):Brock Road (Pickering) to Highway 35/115 (Clarington)43 kilometers
- Previously could cost drivers up to $20 per trip
Tolls Still Apply:Brock Road to Queen Elizabeth Way (Burlington)
- 108 kilometers
- Privately operated
- Tolls can reach up to $86 during peak hours
How Much Will Ontario Families Save?
Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy stated that the Doug Ford gas tax cut will help the average household save about $115 annually on fuel costs. Combined with toll savings, regular commuters could benefit even more significantly.
He added:
“We’re focused on reducing the cost of living and giving families financial breathing room as they deal with high prices and economic uncertainty.”
From Temporary to Permanent: Why It Matters
Initially introduced as a temporary relief measure in 2022, the Gas tax cut has now become a cornerstone of Ontario’s affordability strategy. With the gas tax now locked at 9 cents per liter (down from 14.7 cents), it sends a clear message: putting more money back into the hands of Ontarians is a top priority.
