Georgia lawmakers wrap session with budget, major bills
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Georgia state representatives close out the 40-day legislative session. Photo: Thomas Wheatley/Axios
Georgia lawmakers worked into Friday morning to pass a nearly $39 billion budget and a slate of bills before the legislative session ended.
Why it matters: Sine die is lawmakers' final chance to pass priorities — and with 2026 elections looming, the pressure to deliver wins intensified.
Zoom in: Here's what cleared both chambers and heads to Gov. Brian Kemp.
🤑 Budget: The House and Senate agreed to a $38.5 billion spending plan that includes state employee pay raises and literacy coaches for elementary schools, a priority of House Speaker Jon Burns (R-Newington).
Homelessness: Lawmakers passed a bill that would allow property owners to sue local governments for failing to enforce ordinances related to homelessness, immigration or public safety.
- They also voted to require organizations distributing food in Atlanta to join a state database or risk citations.
🚇 Transit: Lawmakers approved a bill dissolving two state transit agencies and shifting some powers to a new Georgia Transportation Efficiency Authority.
- The measure also extends MARTA's 1% sales tax for a decade and further limits the state's role in transit planning.
💵 Taxes: Lawmakers approved a plan to cut Georgia's income tax to 3.99% if fiscal conditions are met. The bill also exempts taxes on tips and overtime up to $1,750.
- State representatives also backed a scaled-down proposal allowing local governments to use a sales tax to offset property taxes.
🎓 Education: The Senate narrowly approved a needs-based scholarship program for low-income students attending postsecondary institutions.
Transparency: Sexual harassment settlements involving members of the Georgia General Assembly could be made public under legislation approved on Sine Die.
🎩 Pennies: The House sent legislation allowing retailers to round cash transactions' totals to the nearest nickel as the U.S. phases out the penny to Kemp.
What's next: Kemp has 40 days to sign, veto or allow the bills to become law.
What we're watching: Kemp's veto statements, as this is his final year at the Capitol.
- Also, whether the governor answers some lawmakers' calls for a special session to postpone the Legislature's self-imposed deadline this July to remove QR codes from ballots.