The price of gas may continue to fluctuate, but one aspect will remain constant in Georgia. Until at least Dec. 31, the gas tax won’t rise.

The state Senate approved Gov. Nathan Deal’s decision Tuesday to block the automatic tax increase that would have gone into effect July 1.

The measure passed the state House of Representatives last week.

District 23 state Rep. Mark Hamilton, R-Cumming, said he approved the measure to "bring a little stability."

"We have to look out for the citizens," Hamilton said.

Fellow Republican District 24 state Rep. Mike Dudgeon of south Forsyth said he supported it "because the tax had already risen significantly with costs more or less permanently over $3 per gallon."

District 27 state Sen. Jack Murphy said he expected the measure to pass quickly.

"With gas prices being what they are and the stock market being what it is and the economy being what it is, we need to do everything we can to help the taxpayers," said the Republican from Cumming.

While the decision will save motorists nearly 2 cents per gallon, there is a downside.

The tax supports state transportation and infrastructure projects. The measure, which could have generated additional revenue, will keep collections lower.