#GeorgiaEconomy | AM 1180 Radio

June 15, 2026

Nearly Half Of Chattooga County Households Struggle To Afford Basic Needs, New ALICE Data Shows

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A newly released report from United For ALICE paints a sobering picture of financial hardship in Chattooga County, showing that many local families are struggling to make ends meet despite being employed.

June 10, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Georgia Drivers Saved Nearly $200 Million During Temporary Gas Tax Suspension

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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.

June 4, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Georgia Expands Support For Farmers With New Resource Center As Trade Talks Continue

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Georgia agriculture leaders are continuing efforts to strengthen the state’s farming industry through new business resources and expanded market opportunities.

June 1, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Chattooga County Posts Highest Unemployment Rate On Regional Map

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New labor force numbers released for Northwest Georgia show Chattooga County with the highest unemployment rate listed on the latest regional map.

May 29, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Northwest Georgia Unemployment Rate Falls To 2.7 Percent

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The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that Northwest Georgia’s unemployment rate dropped to 2.7 percent in April, down six-tenths of a percentage point from the previous month. The rate was 2.8 percent one year ago.

May 22, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Georgia Labor Force, Employment Reach All-Time Highs in April

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The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that the state reached new all-time highs in both labor force participation and total employment during April, while Georgia’s unemployment rate remained well below the national average.

May 9, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Georgia Tax Collections Increase Again in April

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Georgia’s tax collections continued to climb in April, according to newly released state revenue figures, reflecting continued growth in sales tax and corporate tax revenues statewide.

May 8, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Governor Kemp Signs Major Forestry Legislation Supporting Rural Georgia

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Governor Brian P. Kemp signed a major package of forestry and natural resources legislation Thursday at the Georgia Forestry Association headquarters in Forsyth, highlighting what industry leaders are calling a major boost for Georgia’s forestry economy and rural communities.

May 3, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Georgia Labor Force, Employment Reach Record Highs In March

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Georgia’s workforce continues to show strong growth, with both labor force participation and employment reaching all-time highs in March, according to new data from the Georgia Department of Labor.

April 18, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Georgia Labor Force, Employment Reach Record Highs In February

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The Georgia Department of Labor says the state reached new all-time highs in both labor force and employment in February, even as the unemployment rate ticked up slightly and job totals declined for a second straight month.