Georgia drivers are getting some welcome relief at the pump just as one of the busiest travel periods of the year approaches.
Georgia gas prices have continued to decline in recent weeks, giving drivers some relief at the pump even as overall costs remain a concern.
Georgia motorists saved an estimated $188 million during a temporary suspension of the state’s motor fuel tax that ended June 2, according to newly released state revenue figures.
The tax relief measure, approved earlier this year by Governor Brian Kemp and state lawmakers, temporarily reduced the cost of gasoline and diesel fuel for consumers across Georgia. The suspension was intended to help offset higher fuel costs and provide financial relief to families and businesses.
State officials reported that fuel tax collections dropped significantly during the period the tax break was in effect, contributing to lower overall revenue from motor fuel taxes. Despite the decline in fuel tax collections, Georgia’s broader revenue picture remained stable due to strong collections from other tax sources.
The savings translated into lower prices at the pump for drivers statewide, with the average motorist paying several cents less per gallon during the suspension. State leaders have frequently used temporary fuel tax suspensions in recent years as a way to provide relief during periods of elevated fuel prices or economic uncertainty.
With the tax break now expired, Georgia’s full motor fuel tax rate has returned, meaning drivers are once again paying the standard state tax on gasoline and diesel purchases.
Supporters of the measure say it delivered meaningful savings to Georgia households, while critics note the temporary suspension also reduced transportation-related revenues that help fund road and infrastructure projects.
Georgia gas prices are beginning to level off after recent declines slowed over the past week. According to AAA, the state average is now just one cent lower than last week, but still 25 cents higher than last month and 97 cents higher than this time last year.
The price of filling up is headed higher now that Georgia’s temporary gas tax suspension has expired.
Georgia drivers are seeing some relief at the pump as gas prices continue to fall across the state.
According to AAA, Georgia’s average price for regular gasoline is now $3.85 per gallon. That is 14 cents lower than last week, but still 10 cents higher than last month and 96 cents higher than this time last year.
AAA spokeswoman Montrae Waiters said lower crude oil prices, tied in part to reported Iran peace talks, are helping bring prices down. However, she cautioned that global uncertainty could cause prices to shift quickly.
For drivers filling up a standard 15-gallon tank, the current state average means a cost of about $57.75.
Nationally, the average price for gasoline has dropped to $4.33 per gallon, down 18 cents from a week ago.
In Georgia, the most expensive metro markets are Macon at $3.94, Atlanta at $3.90, and Athens at $3.87. The least expensive metro markets are Dalton at $3.71, Albany at $3.63, and Brunswick at $3.60.
Locally, Chattooga County is averaging $3.78 per gallon. Nearby averages include Walker, Floyd, and Gordon counties at $3.72. Across the state line in Alabama, DeKalb County is averaging $3.93, while Cherokee County is at $3.88.
Drivers are encouraged to compare prices, plan trips, combine errands, and use fuel-saving habits as summer travel increases.
A new AAA survey shows summer travel demand remains steady across Georgia, even as higher gas prices and inflation continue to influence how families plan their trips.
As Memorial Day weekend travel comes to a close, AAA says thousands of Georgia drivers are expected to crowd highways heading home, while gas prices continue putting pressure on family travel budgets.
High gasoline prices are continuing to put financial pressure on thousands of Chattooga County residents who travel outside the county each day for work.
AAA is warning Georgia drivers not to let higher gas prices lead to risky decisions behind the wheel this Memorial Day weekend.