Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp has suspended the state’s motor fuel excise tax for 30 days, starting at 12:01 a.m. on September 29, 2026, and running through October 29.
The move comes as gasoline and diesel prices remain elevated amid the ongoing U.S. conflict with Iran and related global market volatility.
Georgia Gas Tax Suspended: What To Know
Kemp issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency over petroleum supply disruptions and unpredictable price shocks. The order pauses the 33.3-cents-per-gallon tax on gasoline and the 37.3-cents-per-gallon tax on diesel (and certain other motor fuels). Officials expect the break to cost the state roughly $200 million a month in lost revenue, which is expected to be covered from Georgia’s surplus.
Statewide averages stood at about $4.19 per gallon for regular gasoline and $6.24 per gallon for diesel at the time of the announcement—still below some national figures but far higher than a year earlier. Because the excise tax is collected at the distributor level rather than at the pump, motorists may not see the full savings reflected immediately; prices typically adjust as new fuel shipments arrive.
The order also temporarily lifts certain state weight limits on commercial trucks (excluding interstates and posted bridge limits, and requiring permits). Officials say this could reduce the number of trips needed to move goods and help ease costs for groceries and other consumer products. Price-gouging protections on fuel and related emergency goods are included as well.
Kemp framed the action as part of a pattern of tax relief. “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,” he 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.”
Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper and other state leaders highlighted particular pressure on farmers facing high diesel costs.
This is not Georgia’s first fuel-tax holiday under Kemp. Similar pauses occurred in 2022 after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, in 2023 amid high inflation, in 2024 after Hurricane Helene, and earlier in 2026 after the start of the Iran conflict (initially 60 days, with a later short extension). Earlier 2026 data showed the tax holiday lowered pump prices but did not fully offset broader market increases. Local sales taxes on fuel remain in effect.
The timing coincides with political pressure ahead of November elections, as household budgets feel the strain of higher energy and goods prices. Whether the 30-day window is extended will depend on oil markets and any further emergency declaration. Drivers should watch station prices over the coming days rather than expecting an instant, uniform drop equal to the full tax amount.
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