North Gwinnett News

Lawmakers in Georgia gathered this week for legislative days 26-28, with just 12 days remaining in the current session. Thursday marked Crossover Day, the deadline for bills to pass out of their originating chamber to be considered further. Nonetheless, language from unsuccessful bills can still be incorporated into those that have advanced.

Governor Brian Kemp signed the Amended Fiscal Year 2025 budget on Thursday. The $40.5 billion budget addresses several areas including Hurricane Helene relief efforts, water and sewer infrastructure, public safety, corrections, and education.

Among significant legislative developments, SB 139 passed in the Senate with a vote of 31-22. This bill seeks to expand Mulberry's city limits. Its counterpart in the House, HB 647 sponsored by Rep. Sandy Donatucci, also passed with a vote of 98-76.

Several bills are currently under consideration:

- HB 34 by Rep. Dale Washburn proposes a tracking solution for continuing education compliance among professionals.

- HB 82 or "Georgia Guest Worker Act," sponsored by Matt Reeves, aims to establish a guest worker program but did not progress past Crossover Day.

- HB 111 introduced by Governor’s Floor Leader Soo Hong seeks to reduce state income tax rates incrementally over several years.

- HB 112 and HB 113 both sponsored by Governor’s Floor Leader Lauren McDonald III propose tax credits for taxpayers and restrictions on foreign purchases respectively.

Other notable proposals include:

- HB 137 which would increase bid limits for public works projects.

- HB 147 aiming at inventorying AI usage within state agencies.

- SB 79 addressing fentanyl-related crimes with increased penalties.

In addition to these, SBs like SB 180 support apprenticeships while SRs like SR 131 suggest constitutional amendments related to sports betting and casino gambling but remain unvoted upon.

These discussions reflect ongoing legislative activities aimed at economic development and regulatory adjustments across Georgia's various sectors.