Georgia drivers are one step closer to seeing lower prices at the pump. The State Senate has voted to suspend the gas tax, a day after their counterparts in the House sanctioned the move.
Senator Chuck Hufstetler addressed his fellow lawmakers Thursday.
“We’re certainly mindful of persistent affordability concerns, and are using every tool at our disposal, including tax rebates, property tax help,” according to Hufstetler. “Everything we can to help out everyday Georgians.”
Lawmakers approved an amendment to House Bill 1199 that would suspend the motor fuel tax for 60 days. Georgia’s gas tax is 33 cents per gallon. It’s 37 cents per gallon for diesel. Senator Nikki Merritt was among those calling for the suspension.
“I just want to say that I appreciate my colleagues today considering suspending the gas tax,” Merritt said. “It was a request and it really is not a partisan issue, it was just, we could provide relief for Georgians. So I want to thank you. I want to thank the House for bringing the bill forward, and I want to thank you all for the support and it’s a win for our constituents and will hopefully give the much-needed relief as we get through this time.”
The Senate vote was unanimous. The measure now heads to Governor Brian Kemp for his signature. The governor last suspended the gas tax in 2024, due to damage from Hurricane Helene.
