By: Associated Press 

ATLANTA (AP) – One of Georgia’s largest employers is taking heat from Republican officials for a business decision to cut ties with the National Rifle Association.

Threats from Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle and other Republicans running to become Georgia’s next governor are jeopardizing an exemption from sales taxes on jet fuel sought by Delta Air Lines.

Republican state Sen. Chuck Hufstetler said Tuesday that officials were working behind the scenes to resolve the dispute that erupted when Delta announced it would no longer offer discounted rates to NRA members.

Gov. Nathan Deal is serving his last year in office. He refrained from commenting publicly on the rift Tuesday. Deal in the past has opposed social conservatives in his own party on issues the governor felt could threaten Georgia’s business-friendly reputation.

(WCTV)