Governor Kemp's floor leader, Representative Dominic LaRiccia (R - Douglas) introduced legislation to allow the state to draw down increased federal funds for use in improved infrastructure and maintenance in Georgia's rural airports.

“As governor, I am committed to ensuring greater opportunity for all Georgians – no matter their zip code,” stated Governor Kemp. “This legislation allows Georgia to leverage federal aviation funds to directly benefit rural airports, create jobs, and spur economic growth in surrounding communities.”

The legislation establishes a state excise tax on jet fuel of $0.005 per gallon, and is collected by the state for the Department of Transportation to draw down funding – at a 9:1 match by the federal government – for deployment to rural airports across the state. This deployment of resources can be used by local aviation authorities for maintenance and infrastructure projects to improve existing facilities and runways.