-News Release-
Governor Brian P. Kemp today declared a state of emergency due to global market volatility and suspended the state’s motor fuel excise tax for a period of 30 days.
The suspension will take effect at 12:01 a.m. on September 29 and run through October 29.
The governor’s executive order declaring the state of emergency also suspends state weight limits on commercial vehicles, further reducing the cost factored into everyday goods like those bought in grocery stores.
Read the governor’s executive order here.
“Over the past several years, with the help of our partners in the General Assembly, we’ve been able to give billions of dollars in relief to hardworking Georgians,” said Governor Brian P. Kemp. “We’ve remained committed to helping them and our small businesses fight through the tough times, and that’s why I’m taking this action today to give further relief.”
Georgia’s current motor fuel excise tax is 33.3 cents per gallon for gasoline and 37.3 cents per gallon for diesel.
“Over the past four years, we prioritized hardworking Georgians by putting more money back into their pockets and ensuring Georgia’s financial stability,” said Lt. Governor Burt Jones. “Today’s announcement furthers the commitment I share with Governor Kemp and Speaker Burns to put Georgians first and bring relief at the gas pump.”
“Families, businesses and farmers across our state are feeling the pressure of skyrocketing costs at the pump,” said Speaker of the House Jon Burns. “That’s why the House is proud to stand alongside Governor Kemp to take action and deliver direct relief to hardworking families and job creators when and where they need it most.”
The current average price for a gallon of regular gas in Georgia is $4.19 and $6.24 for a gallon of diesel.
“This announcement means immediate relief for Georgia families struggling to afford gas and groceries and Georgia farmers facing diesel prices that have more than doubled in recent weeks,” said Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper. “We have been working closely with Governor Kemp’s office to make this happen, and I am grateful that we have a governor who is willing to take action to give hardworking Georgians relief when fuel prices spike.”
