North Gwinnett News

This year's legislative session concluded as the General Assembly adjourned for Sine Die on April 4. The House and Senate had an early adjournment compared to usual, with proceedings ending at 10:30 PM and 9:10 PM, respectively.

The conference committees reached an agreement on the State Fiscal Year 2026 budget, HB 68, which amounts to nearly $38 billion. The budget restores funding for the Georgia Promise Scholarship, funds the Quality Basic Education formula, delays funding for major sporting events in 2028 and 2031, and increases funding for the Georgia Department of Corrections. Passing a balanced budget remains the only constitutional requirement.

Several significant bills are now moving to Governor Kemp's desk for approval. These include SB 69 and SB 68 related to tort reform, which Governor Kemp and the business community have strongly prioritized. Governor Kemp has until May 14 to act on these and other bills.

HB 34, sponsored by Rep. Dale Washburn, proposed creating a tracking solution for professional license compliance with continuing education requirements. However, it did not pass. Meanwhile, HB 111, proposed by Governor's Floor Leader Soo Hong, aims to reduce the state income tax incrementally to 4.99%. It has successfully passed the Senate.

HB 113, sponsored by Governor's Floor Leader Lauren McDonald III, proposes prohibiting state agencies from purchasing from foreign companies of concern. It passed unanimously in the Senate and now awaits the Governor's decision.

Some bills focus on tax incentives and credits. HB 136, by Rep. Mark Newton, proposes increasing childcare tax credits and offering new credits for families and businesses providing child care. HB 479, sponsored by Rep. Chas Cannon, offers a 20% tax credit for postproduction companies with significant expenditure.

Educational and vocational initiatives such as HB 217 and HB 192, which aim to enhance the state's career and education programs, received positive votes and are expected to be signed into law. Meanwhile, HB 539 and HB 540 address tax exemptions for residents in Gwinnett County, especially focusing on education-related expenses.

SB 79, aimed at addressing fentanyl-related offenses, and SB 28, the "Red Tape Rollback Act," are among bills meriting attention as they head to the Governor. SB 111, regarding consumer privacy, was recommitted and did not pass.

Notably, SB 180, concerning apprentice programs in high-demand fields, passed through the House and awaits the Governor's signature.

The Gwinnett Chamber expressed gratitude to Governor Kemp and other officials for their support of these legislative efforts.