Legislators convened this week for Legislative Days 6 through 9, with sessions held from Monday to Thursday. They are scheduled to return next week for Legislative Days 10 through 13.
Governor Kemp announced a comprehensive tort reform package on Thursday, accompanied by small business leaders and state officials. The package consists of two bills carried by President Pro Tempore John Kennedy (R-Macon). Governor Kemp emphasized the importance of passing the reforms within the current session, suggesting a special session might be called if not achieved by April 4.
The proposed legislation aims to "level the playing field in Georgia’s courtrooms," stabilize insurance costs, and increase transparency. Key elements include premises liability adjustments, restrictions on phantom damages, changes to anchoring practices in trials, and revisions to admissible seatbelt evidence. It also seeks to close loopholes related to attorney fees and plaintiff dismissals during trials.
Additional legislative priorities introduced this week include House Bill 111 by Representative Soo Hong (R-Lawrenceville), which proposes accelerating the decrease in state income tax rates. House Bill 112 and House Bill 113 were introduced by Representative Lauren McDonald (R-Cumming), focusing on tax credits and restrictions on purchases from foreign entities deemed security threats.
Senate Bill 42 was introduced by Senator Bo Hatchett (R-Cornelia) on behalf of First Lady Marty Kemp, aiming to address human trafficking loopholes. Other social issues addressed include Senate Bill 36 by Senator Ed Setzler (R-Acworth), which mirrors federal RFRA laws at the state level.
Health-related legislation includes Senate Bill 30 by Health and Human Services Committee Chairman Ben Watson (R-Savannah), prohibiting certain treatments for minors related to gender dysphoria. Senate Bill 39 by Appropriations Chairman Blake Tillery (R-Vidalia) seeks to prohibit coverage for gender-affirming care under state funds.
Gun-related proposals feature Senate Bill 47 by Senator Jason Anavitarte (R-Dallas), establishing a sales tax holiday for firearms and accessories. Additional measures include Senate Bills 49 and 53 addressing firearm accessibility and public safety education.
Efforts toward government efficiency are reflected in Senate Bill 28 by Senator Greg Dolezal (R-Cumming) and Senate Bill 46 by Senator Marty Harbin (R-Tyrone). These aim to reduce regulatory burdens and improve service delivery across state agencies.
Immigration issues were addressed with Senate Bill 21 introduced by Senator Blake Tillery (R-Vidalia), targeting sanctuary city policies. Medicaid expansion is proposed under Senate Bill 50 by Senator David Lucas (D-Macon).
Artificial intelligence regulation is considered in Senate Bill 37 introduced by Senator John Albers (R-Roswell) and House Bill 147 by Representative Brad Thomas (R-Holly Springs).
Lastly, truck weight regulations are addressed in House Bill 164 introduced by Representative Steven Meeks (R-Screven), seeking permanent adjustments made during the previous legislative session.
This update is provided courtesy of the Regional Business Coalition of Metropolitan Atlanta, representing over a dozen Chambers of Commerce throughout metro Atlanta.
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