As a single mom in a small upstate community with no mass transit, I have no choice but to buy gas, and to travel as far as my job requires in order to suport my two children. Any relief on gas prices, albeit temporary, would help, while long-term solutions are sought. I agree that we must reduce our dependency on oil - I drive a subcompact standard that gets 37 mpg higway, so I'm doing my part. I also agree that gas prices should go up to reduce consumption. However, the dramatic increases we've seen recently without corresponding increases in income hurt folks like me. Comparing the US to Europe is not appropriate either. Other than near our major cities, mass transit is not readily available here as it is there. The high gas prices in the US impact everything we purchase as well, with a corresponding effect on the already fragile economy. Even a temporary reduction could help hold the line on consumer prices in many areas. However, any gas tax relief legislation must include a proviso that the consumer sees the reduction at the pump, otherwise it's useless.