Utility bill payers should have some relief from the high cost of heating their homes this past winter with a tax deduction on their annual state income tax return under proposal made Thursday by New York state Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara. 

The measure as proposed would allow taxpayers to deduct home heating costs from their state income tax as utility bills this season have skyrocketed. 

“After a challenging two years, New Yorkers are now facing inflation and the rising cost of necessities such as food, gas and utilities,” said Santabarbara. “That’s why I’ve introduced new legislation that will allow our families to use the expense of heating their homes as a tax deduction. During this period of economic recovery, we must continue to find ways to help hard-working families save money.”

The proposal comes as lawmakers are debating a state budget that is expected to suspend the per gallon gas taxes in New York as the price remains above $4 in many parts of New York. 

New Yorkers in a Siena College survey released last month expressed growing concnern over the rising costs of gas and other consumer goods.