LEGISLATIVE REPORT
March 14, 2025
In Today’s Edition:
- House Passes FY 2026 Budget
- Georgia State University Recognized & Commended
- February Tax Revenues Up 4.6%
- Federal News: U.S. Department of Education Cuts Workforce by 50%
- Legislation Tracker
- GLIP Intern Spotlight: Q&A with Zayne Dabbas
- GLIP Intern Spotlight: Q&A with Grace King
- Upcoming Events: Legislative Calendar
House Passes FY 2026 Budget
Representative Matt Hatchett at the Georgia State Capitol in Atlanta. Photo: Georgia General Assembly
The Georgia House of Representatives voted 171-4 to pass the HB 68, the $37.7 billion Fiscal Year 2026 state budget. The proposed budget is an increase of $1.6 billion, or 4.4%, over the original FY 2025 budget. This budget reflects a strong commitment to public safety, healthcare, and education, ensuring continued investments in these critical areas.
A key priority in the House budget is advancing literacy statewide to enhance reading proficiency for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Research underscores the importance of reading proficiency by the end of third grade as a strong predictor of future academic success and lifelong achievement. To support these efforts, the FY 2026 budget allocates $22.7 million—$10 million of which is newly appropriated—for initiatives recommended by the Georgia Council on Literacy. Additionally, the budget designates $18.5 million for 116 Regional Education Service Agency (RESA)-based literacy coaches, providing teachers with targeted support to ensure structured literacy instruction and evidence-based reading strategies are effectively implemented.
Higher education also sees significant investments. HB 68, allocates $169.5 million in formula funding for the University System of Georgia, reflecting a 2.7% increase in enrollment and a 0.5% expansion in campus space. Further, the budget includes an additional $17 million for the Dual Enrollment program under the Georgia Student Finance Commission, as well as $10 million to increase the HOPE Private award amount to align with the Zell Private award—ensuring parity between HOPE Public and Private awards.
Georgia State University Recognized & Commended
February Tax Revenues Up 4.6%
Georgia’s net tax collections for February totaled $2.13 billion, marking a 4.6% increase from last year. Year-to-date tax collections stand at $21.53 billion, but when adjusted for last year’s temporary motor fuel tax suspension, collections are down 0.4% compared to the same period. The largest contributor to February’s revenue boost was Individual Income Tax, which increased by 14.9% due to higher withholding payments and fewer refunds issued.
Sales and Use Tax saw mixed results, with gross collections rising 2.4%, but net collections declining by 2.6% due to increased distributions to local governments. Corporate Income Tax collections dropped by 16.2%, driven by lower estimated payments. Motor Fuel Tax revenues increased slightly by 2.1%, while Title Ad Valorem Tax rose 4.3%.
Federal News: U.S. Department of Education Cuts Workforce by 50%
The Department of Education has initiated a reduction in force (RIF), cutting nearly half of its workforce as part of its final mission. Affected employees will be placed on administrative leave starting March 21. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon emphasized that the move aims to enhance efficiency and direct resources toward students, parents, and teachers. Despite the cuts, key programs, including student loans, Pell Grants, and special education funding, will continue.
Legislation Tracker
Interstate Compact for School Psychologists
HB 81, sponsored by Rep. Bethany Ballard (R-Warner Robins), would authorize Georgia to join the Interstate Compact for School Psychologists to facilitate licensure reciprocity among member states. The bill passed the Senate by vote of 48-2 and now goes to Governor Brian Kemp for his signature and final approval.
Expansion of Needs-Based Financial Aid Eligibility
HB 38, sponsored by Rep. Chuck Martin (R-Alpharetta), would revise the definition of an “eligible student” for Georgia’s needs-based financial aid program by adjusting economic criteria, requiring FAFSA completion, and modifying credit hour thresholds for qualification. The bill passed the Senate Higher Education Committee, and is now eligible for consideration in the Senate Rules Committee.
Professional Health Program for Impaired Healthcare Professionals
HB 219, sponsored by Rep. Ron Stephens (R-Savannah), would authorize the Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors and the Georgia Board of Nursing to establish a professional health program for monitoring and rehabilitating impaired healthcare professionals. The bill passed the Senate Regulated Industries and Utilities Committee, and is now eligible for consideration in the Senate Rules Committee.
Film Tax Credit Definition Update
HB 475, sponsored by Rep. Matthew Gambill (R-Cartersville), would revise the definition of “qualified production activities” for Georgia’s income tax credit program, updates rules, authorizes fees, and requires companies to pay court costs if a denied certification is upheld on appeal. The bill passed the Senate Economic Development & Tourism Committee, and is now eligible for consideration in the Senate Rules Committee.
Nurse Practitioners & PAs Performing Artificial Insemination
HB 329, sponsored by Rep. Scott Hilton
(R-Peachtree Corners), would authorize certified nurse practitioners and physician assistants to perform artificial insemination under physician supervision. The bill passed the Senate Health & Human Services Committee, and is now eligible for consideration in the Senate Rules Committee.
Living Donor Leave for Educators
HB 235, sponsored by Rep. Rick Townsend (R-Brunswick), would require public school and postsecondary employers to provide paid leave for educators donating bone marrow or organs. The bill passed the Senate Education & Youth Committee, and is now eligible for consideration in the Senate Rules Committee.
Georgia Lottery for Education Act Amendment
HB 74, sponsored by Rep. Alan Powell (R-Hartwell), would correct a statutory reference and clarifies the application of the Georgia Administrative Procedure Act to the Georgia Lottery Corporation, ensuring its exemption for certain matters while applying it to bona fide coin-operated amusement machines and related disputes. The bill passed the Senate Economic Development & Tourism Committee, and is now eligible for consideration in the Senate Rules Committee.
Dignity and Pay Act
SB 55, sponsored by Sen. Billy Hickman
(R-Statesboro), would phase out the payment of subminimum wages to persons with disabilities, prohibiting employers from using federal certificates to pay below the minimum wage. The bill passed the House Industry & Labor Committee, and is now eligible for consideration in the House Rules Committee.
Veterinary Student Loan Forgiveness Limits
HB 172, sponsored by Rep. David Huddleston (R-Roopville), would establish limits on Georgia’s veterinary student loan forgiveness program by increasing the maximum loan forgiveness to $90,000, restricting eligibility to those specializing in food animal practice for ten years or less, and requiring service in rural counties with populations of 50,000 or less. The bill passed the Senate Higher Education Committee, and is now eligible for consideration in the Senate Rules Committee.
Foster Youth College Grants
SB 85, sponsored by Sen. Matt Brass
(R-Newnan), would establish a grant program for former foster youth to fund postsecondary education, subject to state appropriations. The bill was heard on the House Higher Education Committee, but no actions were taken.
Tuition Equalization Grant Updates
SB 149, sponsored by Sen. Billy Hickman (R-Statesboro), would revise the definition of an approved school for tuition equalization grants at private colleges and universities, updating eligibility criteria and operational requirements. The bill was heard on the House Higher Education Committee, but no actions were taken.
Apprenticeship Program Expansion
SB 180, sponsored by Sen. Clint Dixon
(R-Gwinnett), would expand the High Demand Apprenticeship Program by allowing apprenticeship sponsors to contract with the Technical College System of Georgia, providing completion awards and increasing apprenticeship slots per sponsor. The bill was heard on the House Higher Education Committee, but no actions were taken.
Adult Workforce High School Diploma Program
SB 193, sponsored by Sen. Matt Brass
(R-Newnan), would authorize the Technical College System of Georgia to establish a high school diploma program for adults aged 21-40, partnering with third-party providers to offer academic instruction, workforce credentials, and employability skills certification. The bill was heard on the House Higher Education Committee, but no actions were taken.
AI Usage Inventory for State Agencies
HB 147, sponsored by Rep. Brad Thomas (R-Holly Springs), would require the Georgia Technology Authority to conduct an annual inventory of artificial intelligence usage by state agencies and develop related policies and procedures. The bill was heard on the Senate Science & Technology Committee, but no actions were taken.
Bullying and Cyberbullying Prevention Policies
HB 736, sponsored by Rep. Sheila Jones (D-Atlanta), would revise definitions and policies related to bullying and cyberbullying in schools, strengthens reporting and enforcement measures, and requires enhanced anti-bullying programs and resources. Assigned to the House Education Committee.
GLIP Intern Spotlight: Q&A with Zayne Dabbas
Q: Where is your hometown?
A: . My hometown is Marietta, GA.
Q: What is your major?
A: I am a senior studying a Bachelor’s in Economics.
Q: Who inspires you most in the world, and why do they inspire you?
A: My mom inspires me the most because she has overcome a plethora of obstacles, yet she became the successful woman she is today despite everything she overcame.
Q: Which office/committee are you assigned to?
A: I’m assigned to the Office of House Chairman Ron Stephens and House Chairman Jesse Petrea, and I also work with the House Economic Development & Tourism Committee as well as the House Human Relations & Aging Committee.
Q: What are some of your duties as a legislative intern?
A: Some of my duties as an intern include addressing constituent concerns, bill-tracking, attending and taking notes at committee meetings, scheduling meetings, engaging with lobbyists, planning luncheons, and running paperwork.
Q: What do you hope to gain from the Georgia Legislative Intern Program?
A: I hope to gain connections that will aid me in my future endeavors.
Q: How will this experience help you in your future career plans?
A: I want to obtain my JD and work as an immigration lawyer. The experience to work at the Georgia General Assembly will allow me to witness the law-making process that will one day affect my career on an everyday basis.
Q: If you could use one word to describe your experience at the Georgia Legislative Internship Program thus far, what would that word be, and why?
A: One word to describe my experience at the Georgia Legislative Internship Program is fruitful because it is giving me the opportunity to grow—not only as a person but also as a future lawyer and politician. I never thought I would be rubbing elbows with any officials, yet here I am. It is truly mind-blowing what simply telling your story can produce for you.
GLIP Intern Spotlight: Q&A with Grace King
Q: Where is your hometown?
A: I am from Cumming, GA.
Q: What is your major?
A: I’m currently in my first year of the Master’s program in Public Administration.
Q: Who inspires you most in the world, and why do they inspire you?
A: My parents because they are so strong and supportive. They always push me to be the best I can be.
Q: Which office/committee are you assigned to?
A: I’m assigned to the Senate Leadership Office, where I assist Senator Greg Dolezal, and I also have the opportunity to support the Senate Transportation Committee.
Q: What are some of your duties as a legislative intern?
A: I assist with committee meetings, help manage legislation, and handle incoming calls.
Q: What do you hope to gain from the Georgia Legislative Intern Program?
A: I hope to grow with my connections and friends.
Q: How will this experience help you in your future career plans?
A: I hope this helps me secure a full-time position and gain the experience to be a better employee.
Q: If you could use one word to describe your experience at the Georgia Legislative Internship Program thus far, what would that word be, and why?
A: Helpful. Everyone wants you to do a good job and make meaningful connections while growing your resume.
Upcoming Events
Tuesday, March 18, 2025
- Legislative Day 32
Wednesday, March 19, 2025
- Committee Work Day
Thursday, March 20, 2025
- Legislative Day 33
Friday, March 21, 2025
- Legislative Day 34
Helpful Links
Information on legislative activities including bills and resolutions as well as webcasts of daily sessions in both chambers and committee meetings are available via the General Assembly website at www.legis.ga.gov.
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Brian Harris, Director for Government & Community Affairs
Jason Thomas, Assistant Director for State Relations
Debbie Jones, Associate to the Director
Vinesh Sahadeo Singh, Data Analyst
100 Auburn Avenue, Suite 300
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
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