Georgia Governor Nathan Deal issued an executive order Monday prohibiting the hiking of gas prices as a response to the current gas shortage affecting southeastern states, according to a press release.

The executive order reiterates state law O.C.G.A. § 38-3-51, which prohibits price gouging.

“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 in the press release. “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.”

The executive order, which can be found at gov.georgia.gov, states that “price gouging related to motor fuels is detrimental to the social and economic welfare of the citizens of Georgia,” and state of emergency preventing such gouging has been activated.

Georgia, as well as other surrounding states, have been experiencing gas shortages since a pipeline leak that occurred in Alabama last week.