ECONOMY

Georgia Suspends Gas Tax Amid Iran Conflict Surge

PUBLISHED Mar 19, 2026, 10:50 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 13

Center 92%

Right 8%

Sources: 13

Atlanta — Governor Brian Kemp signed HB 1199 on Friday, suspending Georgia's state motor fuel excise tax for 60 days after the legislature added the amendment this week; the House approved the change Wednesday and the Senate cleared the amended bill Thursday, making the suspension effective immediately. The suspension reduces the state charge by about 33 cents per gallon for gasoline and 37 cents for diesel, potentially lowering pump prices while costing state coffers an estimated $200–$400 million over the 60 days; lawmakers also approved a one‑time income tax rebate and officials said relief is timely ahead of the May primary.

By Adyan K. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Mid-February: HB 1199 initially passed the Georgia House before U.S. strikes related to Iran.
Early March: International tensions and disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz coincided with rising oil and pump prices.
Wednesday: Georgia House overwhelmingly approved amendment to add a 60-day gas tax suspension to HB 1199.
Thursday: Georgia Senate unanimously passed the amended HB 1199 and sent it to the governor.
Friday: Gov. Brian Kemp signed HB 1199 and HB 1000 into law; suspension and rebates took effect immediately.

News Intelligence

This gas tax suspension means you'll pay less at the pump. With the state charge down by 33 cents for gas and 37 cents for diesel, your wallet gets a break. Plus, a one-time income tax rebate is on the way. Check your next pay stub.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 13
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 12

Who Benefited

Motorists and lower-income Georgians benefited from immediate pump price reductions and a one-time tax rebate, easing short-term household expenses.

Who Impacted

State government finances and transportation funding experienced an estimated $200–$400 million reduction during the 60-day suspension of the motor fuel excise tax.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 13
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 12
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 92%, Right 8%

Who Benefited

Motorists and lower-income Georgians benefited from immediate pump price reductions and a one-time tax rebate, easing short-term household expenses.

Who Impacted

State government finances and transportation funding experienced an estimated $200–$400 million reduction during the 60-day suspension of the motor fuel excise tax.