Idaho Speaker Slams Utah's Proposed Refinery Tax as 'Bull Manure'

Moyle says the tax hike would cost Idaho drivers more at the pump

Jan. 30, 2026 at 6:31pm

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Idaho House Speaker Mike Moyle (R) is strongly criticizing a proposal in the Utah State Legislature that would cut the amount of tax Utah residents pay to fill up their vehicles by 50%, with refineries making up the difference. Moyle says this 'bull manure' move would result in a 25-cent increase in fuel prices for Idaho drivers, and he's drafted a resolution urging Utah to reconsider the tax.

Why it matters

The proposed tax change in Utah has sparked a potential border war between the two states, with Idaho concerned about the impact on its residents and economy. This issue highlights the complex dynamics between state legislatures when it comes to cross-border economic policies.

The details

Under the Utah proposal, the state would cut the fuel tax paid by residents by 50%, but refineries would then pay higher taxes to make up the difference. Idaho House Speaker Mike Moyle says this 'refinery tax' would likely lead to a 25-cent increase in fuel prices for Idaho drivers, since much of the state's fuel comes from refineries in Salt Lake via pipeline. Moyle has drafted a resolution urging Utah to reconsider the tax, calling it 'bull manure' and saying Idaho can't stop Utah but may look at ways to 'make you pay up' in response.

  • The Utah State Legislature is currently considering the proposed refinery tax change.

The players

Mike Moyle

The Republican Speaker of the Idaho House of Representatives, who is strongly opposing the proposed Utah refinery tax.

Cal Roberts

The Republican Utah state representative who is sponsoring the bill to implement the refinery tax, claiming it is meant to ensure Utah families get a 'fair deal at the pump'.

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What they’re saying

“This is Idaho. We play fair in the sandbox with Utah for years. We've always considered [Utahns] good partners, and to do this is bull manure in my humble opinion, but we'll see.”

— Mike Moyle, Idaho House Speaker

“Here's what I'd say: We are trying to fight to make sure that Utah families get a fair deal at the pump. That's what this is about. We represent Utahans. We don't represent Idaho.”

— Cal Roberts, Utah State Representative

What’s next

The Idaho Legislature has drafted a resolution urging Utah to reconsider the proposed refinery tax. The outcome of this dispute between the two state legislatures remains to be seen.

The takeaway

This cross-border tax dispute highlights the complex economic and political dynamics between neighboring states, where policies in one state can have significant impacts on residents and businesses in another. The potential for a 'border war' over fuel taxes underscores the need for greater regional cooperation and coordination on economic issues that transcend state lines.