Georgia's governor on Monday announced a suspension of the state gasoline tax through Oct. 29 after declaring "a state of emergency due to global market volatility."
The suspension begins at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday to "provide retailers the appropriate time needed to factor in this adjustment," according to a statement released by Gov. Brian Kemp's office.
Georgia's motor fuel excise tax is 33.3 cents per gallon for gasoline and 37.3 cents per gallon for diesel fuel.
According to roadside assistance service AAA, gas prices in the Augusta area average about $4.16 per gallon. Diesel costs an average of $6.03 per gallon, spiking earlier in September to $6.33.
The governor's executive
order also allows commercial vehicles to carry loads above what they're normally allowed. Bigger payloads mean fewer trips, "further reducing the cost factored into everyday goods like those bought in grocery stores," the statement said.
"Over the past several years, with the help of our partners in the General Assembly, we've been able to give billions of dollars in relief to hardworking Georgians," Kemp said. "We've remained committed to helping them and our small businesses fight through the tough times, and that's why I'm taking this action today to give further relief."
This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Why Georgia drivers could pay less at the pump through October
