The 158th Georgia General Assembly kicked off the 2025 Regular Session on Monday, January 13. This session marks the beginning of our biennial legislative cycle. I am thankful that the citizens of the 30th House district have trusted me to serve as representative under the Gold Dome again.
Initial House Business
As tradition dictates, the clerk read the names of all members into the record. We took our oath of office, administered by Chief Justice Michael Boggs. My son held the Bible as I took my oath. I’m so grateful for my family’s steadfast support as I do this work in Atlanta.
Next, we held leadership elections with Representative Jon Burns (R-Newington) being reelected as Speaker of the House. Representative Jan Jones (R-Milton) was reelected Speaker Pro Tempore.
We also reaffirmed familiar faces in key roles, including Bill Reilly as Clerk of the House, Corey Mulkey as Doorkeeper, and Betsy Theroux as House Messenger. Among the adopted resolutions was Senate Resolution 6, outlining the convening days for the General Assembly. April 4 is set as the final day of the legislative session.
Our opening session included a heartfelt moment as House members sang “Georgia on My Mind” and observed a moment of silence for the late President Jimmy Carter, who passed away last month at 100 years old. Regardless of political affiliation, his lifelong dedication to our state and nation remains an inspiration to us all.
In his welcome address, Speaker Burns reminded us that with only 40 legislative days, our mission is clear: we must work diligently on the people’s business. Key areas of focus this session include healthcare, education, public safety, and job creation. Additionally, we are committed to continuing our efforts on tax relief, as demonstrated by Governor Kemp’s announcement of a $1 billion income tax rebate.
Top Priorities for 2025
One of our top priorities this year is school safety, following the tragic shooting at Apalachee High School in Barrow County. Governor Kemp has proposed an additional $50 million for school security. This would increase the total funding to nearly $69,000 per school for fiscal year 2025.
While litigation reform legislation is still in progress, it may feature caps on damages and new rules to help business and property owners manage claims more efficiently. Governor Kemp outlined potential uses for Georgia’s $11 billion surplus, such as infrastructure projects and improving educational pathways from high school to college or career training.
The debate over legalizing sports gambling is back, with proponents arguing it could fund college scholarships. However, concerns remain about its limited job creation and revenue generation. Any changes might require a constitutional amendment depending on the language of filed bills.
There is also a movement to further regulate girls’ and women’s sports by requiring transgender athletes to compete according to the sex listed on their original birth certificate. This issue is likely to generate significant discussion this session.
Lastly, aiding the victims of Hurricane Helene remains a priority, with anticipated legislation to support affected communities.
The Annual State of the State Address
On Thursday, members of the General Assembly and judiciary gathered in the House Chamber for Governor Brian Kemp’s annual State of the State Address. This event provided an opportunity for the governor to evaluate Georgia’s current condition and outline his legislative priorities for the year. His priorities included increased school safety funding, tort reform, expanded rural healthcare, and support for the Department of Corrections.
Governor Kemp began by addressing the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the worst storm in Georgia’s history, which claimed 34 lives. He highlighted the heroic efforts of first responders and neighbors during the crisis. In response, $100 million was redirected to support the farming and timber industries through the Georgia Development Authority. The governor emphasized ongoing efforts to support the hardest-hit areas.
Addressing broader concerns, Kemp acknowledged the economic challenges Georgians face due to rising costs and inflation. Despite these struggles, he noted successes such as tax cuts, gas tax suspensions, and a homeowner tax relief grant. These measures saved taxpayers over $7.6 billion. The governor proposed reducing the state income tax rate further from 5.39% to 5.19%. As a result of this change, Georgians are expected to save $7.5 billion over the next decade.
Governor Kemp also focused on stabilizing rising insurance costs for small businesses, highlighting House Bill 1114, which allows the Insurance Commissioner to propose reforms. With some businesses facing a 100% increase in premiums, Kemp emphasized the need for comprehensive tort reform to limit civil lawsuits and protect small businesses.
Finally, he reflected on the tragic Apalachee High School shooting, honoring the victims and heroes who responded. He reiterated his commitment to school safety, noting $294 million allocated so far and proposing an additional $159 million to enhance these efforts.
Looking Ahead
For ongoing updates and detailed information on each bill, please visit the Georgia General Assembly’s website or my constituent services page. I’ll continue to keep you informed about key legislative developments throughout the session. As always, you can reach me at my Capitol office at 404-656-0152 or via email at [email protected]. Thank you for the honor of serving as your representative of the 30th House District.