Gas Shortage in Georgia: Executive Order Prohibits Gas Price Gouging

ATLANTA, GA — On Monday, Gov. Nathan Deal issued an executive order that reiterates Georgia laws that prohibit price gouging.

The order comes in the wake of a gasoline pipeline break in Alabama, which has sent gas prices soaring throughout the southeast and caused shortages throughout the region.

“Due to a leak in a critical fuel pipeline in Alabama, which is currently undergoing repairs, Georgia and other states have experienced interruptions in motor fuel supply," Deal said. “There have been recent reports that wholesale and retail gas prices have substantially increased in some markets.

"In order to remedy this, I've issued an executive order reiterating the state law prohibiting price gouging. In addition to this, I’ve sought and received a waiver from the Environmental Protection Agency as well as lifted operating regulations for commercial truck drivers hauling motor fuel. I urge the public to maintain regular consumption levels and travel schedules in order to reduce further interruption in fuel supply.”

More: Find the Cheapest Gas in Atlanta, and 4 Fuel-Saving Tips

Prices in Atlanta last week averaged $2.16, according to AAA. There are some drivers paying up to $2.60 Monday morning.

Alpharetta-based Colonial Pipeline Company estimates between 252,000 gallons and 336,000 gallons of fuel leaked in the spill, which was discovered Sept. 9. Six states have declared emergencies in order to get more fuel to impacted communities and monitor gas prices for potential price gouging.

The company announced over the weekend that it is installing a bypass around the leak and fuel supplies are being delivered to impacted areas.

Image courtesy Colonial Pipeline