Kemp Signs 60-Day Gas Tax Holiday in Georgia

Georgia drivers will soon see some relief at the pump after Governor Brian Kemp signed legislation suspending the State’s motor fuel tax for the next 60 days.

The measure pauses Georgia’s gas tax of roughly 33 cents per gallon and about 37 cents per gallon on diesel, a move aimed at easing pressure as fuel prices climb nationwide.

State leaders framed the suspension as targeted, short-term help for working families and small businesses facing higher transportation costs.

“By suspending the state motor fuel tax for 60 days, we are delivering meaningful, timely relief to millions of Georgia drivers and families when and where it's needed most,” said House Speaker Jon Burns.

The tax break comes as fuel costs rise sharply amid global instability, including ongoing conflict in the Middle East that has strained oil supply and pushed prices higher.

As of late March, the national average price for gasoline approached $4 per gallon, marking one of the highest levels in recent years.

For drivers, the impact could be modest but noticeable. Analysts estimate a typical 15-gallon fill-up may cost about $5 less once the suspension is fully reflected at the pump.

This is not the first time Kemp has turned to a gas tax suspension. The Governor has used similar measures during past spikes in fuel prices, including during the war in Ukraine, periods of high inflation, and natural disaster recovery efforts.

Those earlier suspensions were often tied to declared states of emergency and designed to provide fast relief while broader market conditions stabilized.

While many lawmakers support the move, critics argue the relief is temporary and could reduce funding for road maintenance and infrastructure projects, which rely heavily on fuel tax revenue.

Supporters counter that Georgia’s strong budget position allows the State to offer relief without disrupting core services.

The move in Georgia comes as similar conversations unfold across the Southeast. In Alabama, former U.S. Senator and Democratic gubernatorial hopeful Doug Jones has also weighed in, urging lawmakers to consider options to ease costs for drivers.

At present, Alabama drivers are paying 30 cents per gallon of gasoline and 31 cents per gallon of diesel fuel, according to the Alabama Department of Revenue.

The Georgia suspension is set to last 60 days, after which the tax will automatically resume unless further action is taken.

For now, Georgia drivers can expect some relief — though how much shows up on the receipt may depend on how quickly fuel distributors pass those savings along.

Meanwhile, there have been no moves in Alabama from either Governor Kay Ivey or the Alabama Legislature to grant Alabamians similar relief at the pump.