Last week at the Capitol brought another stretch of long days and steady work as the session moved through week eight. We made it to crossover day, one of the most important deadlines of the year. Before crossover day ends, bills must pass the House or Senate in order to remain eligible for consideration this session. Because of that deadline, the pace increased quickly.
While a few topics often draw the headlines, much of our work involves practical decisions that affect families, businesses, and communities across Georgia. As your representative for House District 30, I continue focusing on policies that strengthen communities and families while keeping Georgia’s economy strong. As legislative day 28 approached, several measures moved forward that deal with taxes, education, public safety, and oversight of state programs.
Tax Relief and Economic Stability
The House has taken up several proposals focused on tax relief and economic stability. Many families continue facing higher costs, so tax policy remains an important topic.
First, the House considered House Resolution 1114. This proposal would have allowed voters to decide whether to eliminate property taxes on primary residences. However, because the measure required a constitutional amendment, it needed 120 votes to pass. The resolution received 99 votes in favor and 73 against, so it did not move forward.
Next, the House passed House Bill 1116, also known as the Georgia HOME Act. This bill addresses property tax relief for homeowners across the state. Specifically, the bill caps property tax increases at three percent. At the same time, it allows local governments the option to offset revenue through an existing sales tax structure.
In addition, the bill requires local governments to report revenue changes each year. Property owners must also receive notice when tax increases occur. The bill passed the House 98–68 and now moves to the Senate as crossover day draws closer.
Another proposal focused on income tax relief. House Bill 880 gradually lowers the state income tax rate from 4.99 percent to 3.99 percent. The bill also increases the dependent personal exemption to $6,000.
Furthermore, the standard deduction for married couples would rise to $36,000, while single filers would see a deduction of $18,000. Meanwhile, the retirement income exclusion would increase from $65,000 to $70,000 per eligible taxpayer. The House passed the bill 102–69, sending it to the Senate before crossover day.
Finally, the House approved House Resolution 1000, which addresses forestry tax relief. Forestry remains a vital part of Georgia’s rural economy. The resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to reduce the assessment rate for qualifying timber to zero percent at harvest or sale. The House passed the measure 166–4.
Standing Up for Domestic Violence Survivors
One of the most serious issues we addressed before crossover day involves domestic violence. Sadly, abuse continues to harm families across Georgia. It’s estimated that 1 out of 4 women and 1 out of 9 men in Georgia experience domestic violence in their lifetime. Patterns of violence often escalate before meaningful intervention occurs.
That is why I supported House Bill 1142, which creates Georgia’s first registry of repeat domestic violence offenders. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation would manage the registry. It would also be searchable online and free for the public to access.
The bill focuses on individuals who demonstrate repeated patterns of abuse. By identifying repeat offenders, the public and law enforcement gain better awareness of potential threats. Greater awareness can help prevent future harm.
Domestic violence leaves lasting scars on families and communities. Survivors often live with fear long after the immediate danger has passed. Therefore, stronger protections and accountability remain critical.
I appreciate the guidance and support from many people who helped shape this legislation. The House passed HB 1142 unanimously, 163–0, before crossover day. The bill now moves to the Senate.
Supporting Early Learning and Student Success
Another measure we passed before crossover day focuses on Georgia’s youngest students. I was proud to support House Bill 1402, which requires vision and hearing screenings for students in pre-K through third grade.
Young children cannot learn effectively if they cannot see or hear clearly. Teachers and experts have shared that many students struggle simply because a problem went undetected. Early screenings help identify those challenges sooner. Once schools identify the issue, families can seek treatment. As a result, students gain a stronger opportunity to succeed during their early years of learning.
Responsible Oversight of Public Programs
The House also passed House Bill 947 before crossover day. This bill strengthens oversight of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, often called SNAP.
Federal law requires states to manage SNAP carefully and prevent fraud. However, Georgia has faced rising numbers of fraudulent applications in recent years. If that trend continues, the state could face significant federal penalties. HB 947 directs the Department of Human Services to strengthen verification procedures during the application process. These steps protect taxpayer dollars while preserving benefits for families who truly need assistance. Programs like SNAP provide vital support during difficult times. At the same time, careful oversight helps protect the integrity of those programs.
Looking Ahead
Committee meetings will continue throughout next week as the House vets Senate bills, and the Senate reviews House bills. That process will carry us through the final weeks of the session.
I remain grateful for the opportunity to represent the people of House District 30 under the Gold Dome. As always, please reach out if you have questions about bills moving through the House. It is an honor to serve our community.