MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Governor Brian Kemp has signed Georgia’s amended $2 billion budget, which features significant income and property tax relief for residents. Key investments include $325 million for education and workforce development, $225 million for public safety, more than $400 million for mental healthcare, $1.6 billion for transportation infrastructure and nearly $60 million to boost rural development across Georgia. Gas prices are climbing in Georgia and across the nation. The average price for regular unleaded fuel in Georgia has jumped to $3.12 per gallon, up from $2.70 last week, while the national average sits at $3.11. AAA spokesperson Montrae Waiters attributes the spike to ongoing global tensions, instability in the oil market, and the seasonal switch to summer-blend gasoline. Waiters suggests strategies like shopping around, paying cash, and joining fuel-saving programs to help ease costs. Valdosta, Atlanta, and Savannah currently have the state’s highest prices. VA Medical Center in Dublin begins major upgrades The Carl Vinson VA Medical Center in Dublin is launching infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving patient care as part of a nationwide $4.8 bi