Kemp extends Georgia gas tax suspension ahead of Memorial Day

ATLANTA — Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp has issued a new executive order extending the suspension of the state motor fuel tax for an additional two weeks as concerns over rising fuel prices and economic uncertainty continue ahead of the Memorial Day travel holiday.

The latest order, signed Friday, declares a statewide state of emergency tied to what Kemp described as “acute consumer price shock” caused by volatile global markets and fluctuating fuel prices.

The renewed suspension comes after Georgia lawmakers earlier approved a temporary 60-day gas tax suspension. That suspension is set to expire at the end of the day on May 19. Under the new executive order, the state motor fuel and diesel tax suspension will continue from 12 a.m. Wednesday, May 20, through 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, June 2, unless extended again by the governor.

The suspension is expected to continue saving drivers roughly 33 cents per gallon on gasoline and 37 cents per gallon on diesel fuel.

Kemp said the state is taking action to help Georgians facing unpredictable price increases on everyday goods and services.

“Today is just the latest step we’re taking, and it’s one that will help all Georgians as they work to make ends meet,” Kemp previously said when signing the original tax suspension legislation.

In the order, Kemp cited instability in global markets, including a sharp increase in Brent crude oil prices, which rose more than 3% on May 15 alone. The order states that the fluctuations have made it difficult for families and businesses to budget and maintain financial stability.

The governor also noted that Memorial Day travel demand is expected to place additional upward pressure on gas prices.

Along with extending the gas tax suspension, the executive order prohibits price gouging related to fuel and other goods and services tied to the emergency declaration.

The order remains in effect through June 2 unless renewed.