Georgia Governor suspends state gas tax through October 29

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has issued an executive order to temporarily suspend the state’s motor fuel tax in response to rising gas prices and global market instability. The suspension, which follows a declaration of a state of emergency regarding gas supply disruptions, is scheduled to run from September 29 through October 29.

The state typically collects 33.3 cents per gallon on gasoline and 37.3 cents per gallon on diesel. While the suspension aims to provide relief to drivers facing unpredictable price shocks, officials noted that price drops at the pump may not be immediate. This is because the tax is collected at the distributor level, and stations may continue to sell fuel purchased before the order took effect.

In August, the motor fuel tax generated nearly $193 million for the state, funds which are primarily used for the maintenance of roads and bridges. Kemp has utilized similar tax suspensions in the past to mitigate the impact of inflation and international conflicts on Georgia residents.