Kemp to sign Georgia gas tax suspension after unanimous Senate vote

ATLANTA - Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp says he plans to sign a bill that suspends the state’s motor fuel tax after it cleared the Senate.

What we know:

The Georgia Senate passed House Bill 1199 with a 51-0 vote on Thursday. 

The legislation suspends the state motor fuel tax for two months, a move intended to offset the "skyrocketing" fuel costs families are currently facing. 

This marks the fourth time the governor has moved to suspend the tax since 2022 to combat an "affordability crisis." 

What we don't know:

While the tax suspension is set for 60 days, it is not yet clear if the General Assembly will consider further extensions if global oil prices remain high.

Additionally, the exact minute the tax break goes into effect at individual gas station pumps following the governor's signature remains to be seen. 

What they're saying:

Governor Brian Kemp has already signaled his support, stating he plans to sign the bill on Friday to provide "immediate relief." 

In a statement posted to his social media account, Gov. Kemp wrote:

"I applaud the General Assembly for its passage of HB 1199, providing immediate relief for families by suspending the motor fuel tax."

The move saw rare unanimous support from both sides of the aisle. 

"Obviously with gas prices spiking like they have, it was just the right thing to do," said Lt. Governor Burt Jones. 

Senate Minority Leader Harold Jones II (D-Augusta) noted that Democrats had previously urged the Governor to take this step. 

"I think this is needed for the people of Georgia. So we're happy to support that," Jones said. 

Senator John Albers (R-Roswell) added, "We do the right thing to help Georgians when there is time for affordability crisis." 

Big picture view:

The push for relief follows a steady rise in fuel costs since the U.S. and Israel bombed Iran earlier this month. The conflict is taking place near the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping lane where about 20% of the world's oil originates.

Local perspective:

The impact is already being felt locally. Gas prices in Atlanta have jumped 33.7 cents in just one week and are up by more than $2.70 compared to last month's average.

By the numbers:

• 51-0: The final unanimous vote count in the Georgia Senate.
• 60: The number of days the gas tax will be suspended under HB 1199.
• 33 cents: The approximate amount gas prices are expected to drop per gallon.
• 37 cents: The current state tax rate on diesel fuel.

What's next:

When Governor Kemp signs the bill, gas prices will drop by about 33 cents, which is the current tax rate on gas. The tax on diesel is about 37 cents, according to the state. He is expected to do that one Friday.