The House wrapped up the 11th week of the 2026 session with a full schedule of votes and committee work. With only a few days left before Sine Die on April 2, the pace has intensified across the Capitol. These final days matter because any bill that does not receive final passage cannot become law this year. As a result, much of our work now focuses on moving key legislation across the finish line.
Final Passage on Public Safety and Accountability
One of the most significant actions this week was the House’s unanimous approval of Senate Bill 542. This bill strengthens penalties for those who abuse positions of spiritual authority. With its final passage in the House, it now moves forward in the process.
SB 542 creates new criminal offenses for improper sexual conduct by clergy members. It applies when a clergy member uses a position of trust, counseling, or authority to coerce or exploit another person. The bill clearly defines these relationships so there is no confusion about accountability.
Penalties under the bill include:
- First-degree offenses punishable by one to 25 years in prison
- Fines up to $100,000
- Second-degree offenses escalating from misdemeanor to felony for repeat violations
- A 15-year statute of limitations
These provisions recognize the serious breach of trust involved. By advancing this bill, the House sent a clear message that abuse of authority will not be tolerated.
Education and Student Focus
The House also gave final passage to House Bill 1009, which now heads to the governor’s desk. This bill limits student use of personal electronic devices during the school day for grades nine through 12.
Under the bill, devices such as smartphones and tablets would not be allowed during school hours. However, exceptions exist for students with medical needs or educational plans that require device use.
In addition, school systems must adopt clear policies and provide secure storage options. These include lockers or designated classroom spaces.
Feedback from earlier device restrictions in younger grades has been positive. Teachers report better focus, and parents have shared similar feedback. With final passage of HB 1009, high school classrooms may see the same improvement.
Mental Health and Stability
Another important measure passing out of the House this week was Senate Bill 428. This bill addresses a long-standing gap in mental health care across Georgia.
Many individuals struggle with serious mental health conditions but do not qualify for institutional care. As a result, they often cycle through hospitals, jails, or homelessness.
SB 428 allows the state to request federal waivers to provide community-based services for adults over 21. These services help individuals manage conditions before reaching a crisis point.
This approach focuses on early support rather than emergency response. By moving this bill toward final passage, the House supported a more practical and effective model for care.
Supporting Individuals with Disabilities
The House also gave unanimous passage to Senate Bill 433, also known as Rio’s Law. This bill supports individuals with autism and developmental disabilities.
The bill allows drivers to request a voluntary license plate indicating a developmental disability. In addition, it requires law enforcement training on how to interact with individuals who may have different communication or behavioral needs.
Training under the bill includes:
- Recognizing behavioral characteristics
- Using appropriate communication techniques
- Avoiding unnecessary physical restraint
- Contacting caregivers when needed
With final passage, this bill moves Georgia toward better understanding and safer interactions for vulnerable individuals.
Foster Care Review and Human Trafficking
The House also approved Senate Resolution 622, which creates a study committee to examine rising foster care costs. Georgia currently serves nearly 10,000 children in foster care. Costs have increased sharply in recent years.
The committee will review spending, services, and long-term sustainability. While this resolution begins a study, it plays an important role in shaping future policy and additional reforms.
The House passed Senate Bill 547, which strengthens penalties for human trafficking-related crimes. The bill reclassifies pimping and pandering as felonies for all offenses.
Under current law, first offenses may be treated as misdemeanors. This bill closes that gap. Offenders would now face one to 10 years in prison.
This change reflects the seriousness of exploitation crimes. With final passage, the House reinforced protections for victims and increased accountability for offenders.
Technology and Public Trust
The House also passed two bills addressing the growing use of artificial intelligence. Senate Bills 540 and 594 both advanced with strong support.
SB 540 focuses on AI chatbots and protections for minors. It requires clear disclosure when users interact with AI systems. It also requires safeguards against inappropriate content and includes parental controls.
Meanwhile, SB 594 addresses deceptive AI use in elections and online activity. It creates penalties for using AI-generated content to mislead voters. It also criminalizes the creation of explicit AI-generated content involving minors.
These bills reflect the need to keep pace with new technology. By moving them toward final passage, the House worked to protect both consumers and public trust.
Workforce and Education Support
Senate Bill 150 also passed this week, supporting Georgia’s education workforce. The bill allows retired teachers to return to the classroom in high-need subject areas through 2030.
Eligible teachers must have at least 30 years of service. They may continue receiving retirement benefits while working. This approach helps address teacher shortages while keeping experienced educators in the classroom.
Other Bills Passed
Several additional measures moved forward this week including:
- SB 306 – Updates conservation use property rules and tax credit caps
- SB 442 – Revokes commercial driver’s licenses for noncitizens after visa expiration
- SB 443 – Strengthens penalties for obstructing public roads
- SB 472 – Expands oversight of local school system finances
- SB 503 – Updates insurance law, increases fraud penalties, and improves consumer protections
- SB 605 – Expands grounds for discipline of district attorneys and solicitors
Each of these bills reflects detailed work that shapes policy across Georgia. Many of them are now positioned for passage before the session ends.
Looking Ahead
With Legislative Day 40 approaching, the focus now remains on completing the work before us. Sine Die marks the final opportunity for passage this year, and long days are expected as we move toward adjournment.
As always, I appreciate the opportunity to represent House District 30. If you have questions or concerns, please reach out. Your input continues to guide the work being done under the Gold Dome.