Georgia to Raise Gas Tax to 14.5 Cents Per Gallon Next Month

MARIETTA, Ga. -- Gas taxes in Georgia will rise for the second time in two months in July, WSB-TV reported. The state's 4 percent fuel tax rose 3 cents last month. In July, the tax will rise to 14.5 cents per gallon.

The state always refigures the tax twice a year during January and July. The tax can also be reconfigured if gas prices undergo a dramatic price swing, either up or down, according to the report.

Gas prices have recently dropped, which would make one think a tax increase would either not be necessary or not be as severe. However, the average gas price was calculated weeks ago, when the average was in the $4 range. According to state law, the early calculation is done so gas stations and their suppliers get plenty of notice of any potential changes.

Georgia's gas tax has risen significantly since 2009. The tax was 8 cents two years ago, and has spiked 80 percent since then.