A person’s monthly income would be increased by $100 for each dependent.
On March 17, Representative Mike Thompson (D.CA-05), introduced a bill to Congress that would pay $100 per month for gasoline above $4.00. The bill is co-sponsored by John B. Larson (D–CT-01) as well Lauren Underwood (D–IL-14).
Congress.gov does not have the complete text of the bill at the time of writing, as the Government Publishing Office has yet to provide that information. The title for H.R. 7143: “To provide energy rebates for individual taxpayers, as well as for other purposes.” Rep. Thompson calls it the Gas Rebate Act of 20202.
A press release by Rep. Thompson states that single filers earning less than $75,000 per year would get $100 per month. A smaller amount would be given to those earning between $75,000-$80,000.
People who jointly file and earn less than $150,000 per month would also be eligible for $100. People who make between $150,000 to $160,000 each month would receive less.
Additionally, each dependent of a person who is eligible for the program will receive $100.
AAA lists the current average price of regular gasoline in the US at $4.242 as of March 22. This is compared to the average price of $4.316 per week and $3.531 per month. The US Energy Information Administration has listed the average price for regular gas at $4.239 per gallon as of March 21, 2009. The March 14 figure was $4.315 per gallon, and $4.102 per gallon for March 7.
Gas prices have been higher in many places. California, where Thompson is a Representative , reported that premium fuel was selling for more than $6.00 per gallon.
H.R. H.R. 7143 is still in the beginning stages of becoming a law. It must still go through the committee before it can be voted on by the House of Representatives. The Senate also has a similar process. All of this is required before President Biden can take the initiative.