Georgia Senate approves 60-day gas tax suspension, Kemp to sign off Friday

ATLANTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - A resolution to suspend Georgia’s gas tax for 60 days is headed to Gov. Brian Kemp’s desk after the Senate unanimously approved the measure Thursday.

The suspension could lower costs at the pump by more than 30 cents per gallon for the next two months.

The state gas tax is currently 33.3 cents per gallon, or 37.3 cents for diesel.

Gas prices are climbing, nearing $4 a gallon. For many Georgians, the increase is affecting daily life.

Christian Hernandez, 17, said every fill-up takes planning.

“It’s very stressful going around, trying to find which gas station has the lowest price,” Hernandez said.

Relief could mean $10 savings per fill-up

The plan would cut the state gas tax for 60 days. That could save drivers about 33 to 34 cents a gallon. For most drivers, that could mean around $10 less every time they fill up.

Lawmakers said high gas prices don’t stop at the pump — they raise the cost of food and everyday goods.

“These prices trickle through the economy,” said state Sen. Chuck Hufstetler.

Lawmakers on both sides said people are feeling the impact.

“It’s not a partisan issue,” said Sen. Nikki Merritt.

For drivers like Hernandez, even small savings matter.

“It would really help people like me,” Hernandez said.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Georgia House passes 60-day gas tax suspension

Bill heads to governor’s desk

On Wednesday, the House overwhelmingly approved an amendment to add the suspension to HB 1199, an annual bill that aligns the Georgia tax code with IRS rules.

Lt. Gov. Burt Jones said he was grateful for the legislative action.

“I’m very grateful for the House and the Senate getting it done,” Jones said.

Kemp said Thursday he will sign the bill Friday.

“I applaud the General Assembly for its passage of HB 1199, providing immediate relief for families by suspending the motor fuel tax. This is great news for all Georgians, and I look forward to signing this tomorrow,” Kemp said in a statement posted on social media.

Prices are not expected to drop overnight. It could take a few days before drivers see the savings.

Kemp has suspended the gas tax three times — in 2022 due to the war in Ukraine, in 2023 due to high inflation and in 2024 due to Hurricane Helene.