Wisconsin Markup Law Repeal Proposed to Lower Gas Costs
Proposed changes to state policy could reduce fuel prices for drivers by at least 40 cents per gallon.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Inflation
Live Poll
Should the state repeal mandatory minimum markup laws for gasoline to lower pump prices?
Officials held a roundtable discussion in La Crosse regarding rising gas prices in Wisconsin. The conversation centered on the potential repeal of a state law that mandates a minimum markup for fuel sales.
Why it matters
Rising gas prices have strained household budgets for the last seven months, with factors like the war with Iran and tariffs contributing to the trend. Addressing the state markup law serves as one potential avenue to provide immediate relief at the pump for Wisconsin residents.
Wisconsin state law currently forces a 9% markup on gas station floor prices. Repealing this mandate could lower unleaded fuel costs by at least 40 cents and diesel by over 50 cents per gallon.
The players
Sarah Godlewski
A political candidate who advocates for the repeal of the state minimum markup law to lower fuel prices.
Tom Tiffany
A political candidate who supports the elimination of the mandatory fuel markup law in Wisconsin.
The details
The current Wisconsin minimum markup law requires retailers to automatically apply a 9% increase to the floor price of fuel. Proponents of a repeal argue that removing this statutory requirement would lower the final price paid at the pump by at least 40 cents for unleaded fuel and over 50 cents for diesel. This mechanism is intended to directly pass on wholesale cost adjustments to the consumer by removing the legislated price floor.
Timeline
February 2026 marked the beginning of the war with Iran.
September 22, 2026 was the date of the roundtable event.
Money Landscape
The push to change the Wisconsin minimum markup law arrives as drivers manage fuel costs impacted by international conflicts. The proposal seeks to shift the current legislative framework to lower prices for state residents.
The proposed repeal of the 9% markup law would represent an immediate reduction in the cost per gallon for household vehicle owners. Consult with a financial professional to review how fluctuating transportation expenses impact your overall monthly budget.
The takeaway
Legislative changes to state markup laws can create immediate differences in what households pay at the gas station. Monitor the upcoming legislative session to see if the proposal to remove the 9% markup gains traction in the state assembly.
Further reading
For more on managing fuel budgets and price changes, visit Inflation.
Live Poll
Should the state repeal mandatory minimum markup laws for gasoline to lower pump prices?
