(GA. NEWS NETWORK)
*Georgia lawmakers are trying to provide a little relief at the gas pump. The state House passed a measure Wednesday that suspends the state’s gas tax for the next 60 days, which would drop prices 33 cents a gallon. The price of gas has risen a dollar during the war against Iran. The state Senate must approve the bill before its heads to the governor’s desk. Gov. Kemp said a few days ago he wasn’t inclined to issue an executive order at this time suspending the tax.
*Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport officials report that TSA agent call-out rates are up 36 percent due to the ongoing partial government shutdown, which has those who are working doing so without pay. The result is long security lines, which is why travelers are advised to arrive at least three hours early. In Washington, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries plans to present a discharge petition to force a vote on funding for the Department of Homeland Security to end the shutdown.
*McDuffie County Commissioners move forward with Project Azalea, a proposed data center complex in Thomson. Residents had mixed views on the project during the Tuesday meeting, with some supporting it for the potential economic benefits and others with concerns about environmental impact and long-term sustainability. WJBF reports the commission ultimately approved zoning for the 200-acre project with conditions, like sound barriers and specific generator types.