LEGISLATIVE REPORT
June 13, 2025

In Today’s Edition:

• Women Veterans Recognition Day
• House Study Committee on the Costs & Effects of Smoking
• Governor Kemp Announces One-Time Tax Refunds
• Georgia Tax Revenues Rise 9.1% in May
• Christy Todd Named Georgia Department of Education Chief of Staff
• Federal News: College Athletes to Receive Direct Pay
• Federal News: Higher Ed Bill Moves Toward Compromise
• Federal News: Rebuilding Higher Ed Amid Digital Disruption
• Community Engagement: GAC Spring Meeting 2025
• Georgia State University Faculty Shine in Urban Studies
• Upcoming Study Committees

 

Women Veterans Recognition Day

Senator Tonya Anderson as Keynote Speaker for Women’s Veterans Recognition Day Celebration

Georgia State University proudly hosted a special event on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, in celebration of Women Veterans Recognition Day, which is observed annually on June 12. This day honors the brave and bold women who have served in the U.S. military since the signing of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act in 1948. The event, organized by Cultures, Communities & Inclusion (CCI) and Military Outreach, recognized and celebrated the remarkable stories, service, and experiences of women veterans — both in uniform and beyond.

Attendees gathered for a meaningful afternoon that included a networking lunch, storytelling from women veterans, and a keynote address by Senator Tonya Anderson, a U.S. Air Force veteran, Georgia state legislator, and GSU alum.

 

House Study Committee on the Costs & Effects of Smoking

The House Study Committee on the Costs & Effects of Smoking, chaired by Representative Sharon Cooper, met on June 12, 2025. The study committee examined the cost of smoking, including short-term and long-term health care costs, the impact on Medicaid and Medicare, childhood health costs resulting from secondhand smoke exposure and the loss of worker productivity attributed to smoking.

Featured speakers include representatives from the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute, the Georgia Society of Clinical Oncology, the American Lung Association, the American Heart Association, and Emory University.

 

Governor Kemp Announces One-Time Tax Refunds

Governor Brian Kemp announced that the Georgia Department of Revenue is beginning to issue one-time, special tax refund checks within the month of June, made possible by the passage of HB 112 during the 2025 legislative session. This marks the third round of such refunds under Kemp’s administration and reflects Georgia’s strong economy and conservative budgeting. Eligible taxpayers who filed both their 2023 and 2024 returns on time can expect to receive their refunds in the coming weeks. Refund amounts are based on 2023 tax liability and are capped at $250 for single filers, $375 for heads of household, and $500 for joint filers.

In addition to the refunds, Georgia lawmakers also passed HB 111, further reducing the state’s income tax rate from 5.39% to 5.19%—the second acceleration of rate cuts initiated under Governor Kemp. State Revenue Commissioner Frank O’Connell emphasized the department’s readiness to issue these refunds efficiently and securely. Taxpayers can check their eligibility through the Georgia Tax Center’s online tool by entering key details such as their tax year, Social Security Number or Tax ID, and Federal Adjusted Gross Income.

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Georgia Tax Revenues Rise 9.1% in May

In May 2025, Georgia’s net tax collections surged to $2.69 billion, marking a 9.1% increase compared to May 2024. This boost was largely influenced by a hurricane-related extension for filing tax year 2024 returns, which led many taxpayers to remit payments during May. Individual Income Tax payments notably rose by 142.9%, driving a significant portion of the growth, while Corporate Income Tax collections also jumped 70.8%. Sales and Use Tax revenues increased by 4.9%, further supporting the overall gains.

Year-to-date, net tax revenue reached $30.46 billion, up $536.2 million, primarily due to the reinstatement of the state’s motor fuel excise tax after a suspension earlier in the fiscal year. When adjusted for the motor fuel tax changes, year-to-date collections showed a modest increase of 0.2%. Additional gains were seen in Motor Vehicle Tag & Title Fees and Title Ad Valorem Tax, reflecting steady economic activity across Georgia’s tax sectors.

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Christy Todd Named Georgia Department of Education Chief of Staff

Photo from left to right: State School Superintendent Richard Woods and Christy Todd 

Christy Todd, the 2024 Georgia Teacher of the Year and a finalist for National Teacher of the Year, has been named Chief of Staff at the Georgia Department of Education. After 15 years of teaching in Fayette County and launching the successful “Teach in the Peach” teacher recruitment initiative, Todd will now help lead the agency’s efforts to support educators and advance Superintendent Richard Woods’ vision of preparing all students for life. She officially stepped into her new role on June 1.

Todd succeeds Matt Jones, who served as Chief of Staff from 2015 to 2025. Jones played a key role in shaping major agency initiatives, including pandemic response efforts and expanding support for rural and career-focused education. Superintendent Woods and Jones both expressed confidence in Todd’s leadership, noting her strong ties to Georgia’s education community and her commitment to ensuring teacher voices are part of the decision-making process.

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Federal News: College Athletes to Receive Direct Pay

In a historic move that reshapes the future of college sports, a federal judge has approved the House settlement, allowing schools to directly pay athletes as early as next month. The ruling ends long-standing restrictions on revenue sharing and authorizes up to $20.5 million per school annually, plus $2.7 billion in back payments to former athletes. This decision dismantles the NCAA’s amateurism model and puts power in the hands of major conferences, marking a major shift in how college athletics will operate going forward.

The settlement follows years of legal battles and growing pressure for fairness, sparked by Arizona State swimmer Grant House’s 2019 lawsuit. While football and basketball players stand to benefit the most, concerns remain about the impact on walk-ons and Olympic sports. Though the agreement is a major step, it doesn’t end legal uncertainty—states have different NIL laws, and NCAA leadership continues to push for a federal law to stabilize the system nationwide.

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Federal News: Higher Ed Bill Moves Toward Compromise

The Senate has released its version of the federal higher education overhaul, dialing back several of the House’s more controversial proposals. Unlike the House bill, the Senate version preserves Pell Grant eligibility for part-time students, scraps a risk-sharing plan that would penalize colleges for unpaid student loans, and retains subsidized loans and undergraduate borrowing levels. It also includes accountability measures based on students’ earnings post-graduation, drawing praise from some advocates for being more student-focused and transparent. However, caps on graduate borrowing remain, and many believe the bill will still negatively impact access for low-income students.

Despite the improvements, higher ed groups remain cautious as the House and Senate move to reconcile their versions of the bill. Provisions like expanding Pell Grants to short-term credential programs and implementing new college accountability frameworks remain sticking points, with sharp disagreement over the best approach. A final vote is likely weeks away, with budgetary savings and college accountability measures expected to be the central battlegrounds. Lawmakers now face the challenge of balancing reform, access, and cost in reshaping the federal student aid system.

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Federal News: Rebuilding Higher Ed Amid Digital Disruption

At the recent Digital Universities US conference, education leaders, tech experts, and faculty gathered to confront the uncertainty reshaping higher education. With looming disruptions—from declining public trust and enrollment to AI’s rapid advancement—attendees agreed that institutions must adapt quickly. Conversations focused on how colleges can redefine their missions in a changing world, build trust around data and privacy, and address long-standing structural weaknesses. AI, in particular, was seen not just as a challenge but as a catalyst, surfacing deeper issues like outdated assessments and institutional accountability.

Panelists also explored how AI is affecting both instruction and job preparation. While some warned of AI’s threat to entry-level white-collar jobs, others saw opportunity—emphasizing skills transparency, better use of faculty expertise, and responsible adoption of new technologies. Still, many institutions remain policy-less on AI use, creating an environment described as the “wild West.” The consensus was clear: higher ed must act with purpose and strategy, using this moment of disruption to evolve, not retreat.

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Community Engagement: GAC Spring Meeting 2025

The Georgia State University Office of Government & Community Affairs recently participated in The Georgia Chamber of Commerce’s Government Affairs Council Spring Meeting.  The Government Affairs council is the only body of its kind in the nation. This exclusive event convenes GAC committee members—comprising nearly 500 government relations professionals from various industries across the state—to discuss legislative priorities and strategies that support Georgia’s pro-business agenda. The meeting serves as a platform for networking with lobbyists and legislators, reviewing policy developments and recognizing outstanding legislative contributions.

Awards were given out to honor outstanding political leadership in Georgia. Senator John F. Kennedy was named Senator of the Year, Representative Matthew Gambill was honored as Representative of the Year, and Senator Drew Echols received the Freshman of the Year award. These recognitions celebrate their dedication and service to the state. Congratulations to all three on this well-deserved acknowledgment.

 

Georgia State University Faculty Shine in Urban Studies

Thomas J. Vicino, Cathy Yang Liu, & Deirdre Oakley; Faculty Members at Georgia State University

Three Georgia State University faculty members—Cathy Yang Liu, Deirdre Oakley, and Thomas J. Vicino—have been named to the Urban Affairs Association’s Distinguished Service Honor Roll. This prestigious recognition was announced during the association’s annual conference in Vancouver, British Columbia, honoring their sustained contributions to the field of urban affairs. The Urban Affairs Association is a leading global organization for urban scholars and professionals, and its membership includes many of the academic experts who contribute to the U.S. News & World Report rankings. Notably, the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies’ urban policy program was recently ranked third in the nation.

In addition to this honor, Georgia State faculty continue to play vital leadership roles within the association. Cathy Yang Liu serves as chair of the Governing Board and CEO of the organization, and is also senior associate editor of the Journal of Urban Affairs. Dean Thomas Vicino, who joined the Andrew Young School in 2024, is on the editorial board of the Journal of Race, Ethnicity and the City. Deirdre Oakley contributes her expertise as a sociology professor, while Jean-Paul Addie, also of the Andrew Young School, edits the Urban Affairs Association’s book series, Rights to the City. These roles reflect the university’s deep and ongoing influence in shaping the future of urban studies and public policy.

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Upcoming Study Committees

HOUSE

June 16th, 2025: Retirement Committee Meeting 

 

SENATE

June 24th, 2025: Urban Affairs Committee Meeting   

 

 

Several House and Senate Resolutions that successfully passed during the legislative session will be the focus of continued discussion and action in the months ahead. Although the session has adjourned, these resolutions remain active topics and will be explored further outside of the session.

HR 368, sponsored by Rep. Steven Sainz (R-St. Marys), would evaluate and recommend regulations on potentially intoxicating cannabinoids in consumable hemp products, consider public safety impacts, industry concerns, and assess whether excise taxes should apply to these products.

HR 659, sponsored by Rep. Eddie Lumsden (R-Armuchee), would examine rising insurance premiums, limited coverage, industry profit margins, and regulatory practices, with the goal of recommending reforms to ensure fairness, transparency, and consumer protection in Georgia’s insurance market.

HR 885, sponsored by Rep. Victor Anderson (R-Cornelia), would review and recommend updates to Georgia’s election procedures and laws, with a final report due before December 1, 2025.

HR 69, sponsored by Rep. Imani Barnes (D-Tucker), would recognize every third Thursday in April as Biomedical Research Day to honor the role of animal studies in medical advancements, acknowledge biomedical professionals, and promote education and advocacy for compassionate animal care and scientific research careers.

HR 145, sponsored by Rep. Chris Rewin (R-Homer), would urge the Departments of Education and Public Health to collaborate on expanding vision and hearing screenings at multiple grade levels to detect issues that could hinder literacy development.

HR 711, sponsored by Rep. Chris Rewin (R-Homer), would examine causes of chronic absenteeism in PreK–12, assess best practices, and recommend legislative solutions to improve attendance and engagement.

HR 887, sponsored by Rep. Shaw Blackmon (R-Bonaire), would evaluate and recommend ways to reduce or reprioritize state mandates on public school administrators to better focus efforts on improving student learning.

HR 429, sponsored by Rep. Chuck Martin (R-Alpharetta), would review Georgia’s current 9-1-1 funding system and recommend reforms to support the transition to modern, technologically advanced Next Generation 9-1-1 centers.

HR 590, sponsored by Rep. Robert Dickey (R-Musella), would evaluate the effectiveness and future of telecommunications programs for Georgians with hearing and visual impairments and determine if legislative updates are needed to reflect modern technology and community needs.

HR 512, sponsored by Rep. Leesa Hagan (R-Lyons), would create a 13-member House Study Committee to examine the addiction crisis in Georgia and propose strategies for prevention, treatment, recovery support, and collaboration among stakeholders.

HR 592, sponsored by Rep. Mark Newton (R-Augusta), would examine how noncompete clauses affect physician mobility, patient care access, and healthcare outcomes in Georgia, and to consider potential legislative reforms.

HR 450, sponsored by Rep. Marcus Wiedower (R-Watkinsville), would propose a constitutional amendment allowing the General Assembly to legalize and regulate sports betting in Georgia, directing revenue toward education (including HOPE scholarships and pre-K) and gambling addiction prevention programs.

HR 593, sponsored by Rep. Mark Newton (R-Augusta), would evaluate access, funding, and barriers to maternal, prenatal, and pediatric healthcare in Georgia, especially in rural areas, and to recommend legislative solutions.

HR 816, sponsored by Rep. Scott Hilton (R-Peachtree Corners), would explore establishing a registry for individuals substantiated to have abused or exploited at-risk populations, such as the elderly or disabled, including a review of similar systems in other states.

HR 611, sponsored by Rep. Katie Dempsey (R-Rome), would assess gaps in services for minors discharged from psychiatric or emergency hospital care, explore prevention programs for family disengagement, and recommend improvements to care coordination, state responsibilities, and funding strategies.

HR 847, sponsored by Rep. Darlene Taylor (R-Thomasville), would assess Georgia’s public health funding, examine the structure and services of the current system, identify funding gaps, and recommend potential legislative actions to strengthen the state’s public health infrastructure.

HR 304, sponsored by Rep. Michelle Au (R-Johns Creek), would evaluate the health and economic impacts of smoking and secondhand smoke, including associated healthcare costs, Medicaid and Medicare burdens, and productivity losses.

HR 817, sponsored by Rep. David Clark (R-Buford), would assess the risks and privacy concerns associated with government use of drones manufactured by foreign adversaries and to recommend appropriate regulations and intergovernmental coordination.

 

SR 427, sponsored by Sen. Kay Kirkpatrick (R-Marietta), would examine and recommend regulations on intoxicating cannabinoids in hemp products to protect public health while considering industry impact.

SR 216, sponsored by Sen. Elena Parent (D-Atlanta), would examine rising pedestrian and cyclist fatalities in Georgia and assess laws, enforcement, and infrastructure investments to improve safety and accountability.

SR 217, sponsored by Sen. John F. Kennedy (R-Macon), would examine causes and solutions to chronic absenteeism in Georgia schools, aiming to reduce its impact on student achievement and long-term success.

SR 255, sponsored by Sen. Carden Summers (R-Cordele), would examine and make recommendations on reducing harmful companion animal breeding practices, such as puppy mills and illegal backyard operations, to improve animal welfare, public safety, and enforcement consistency.

SR 301, sponsored by Sen. Gail Davenport (D-Jonesboro), would examine the historical significance and lasting impact of Rosenwald schools in Georgia, which educated African American children during segregation, and to explore actions to preserve their legacy.

SR 310, sponsored by Sen. Kay Kirkpatrick (R-Marietta), would assess and recommend additional services and resources for youth aging out of foster care to improve outcomes in education, employment, housing, and overall adult success.

SR 311, sponsored by Sen. Randy Robertson (R-Cataula), would evaluate the safety, effectiveness, and oversight of recovery residences in Georgia, with the goal of recommending improvements to ensure quality support for individuals recovering from addiction.

SR 323, sponsored by Sen. Drew Echols (R-Gainesville), would explore strategies for expanding and enhancing tourism across Georgia to position it as the nation’s top travel destination.

SR 386, sponsored by Sen. Colton Moore (R-Trenton), would assess the feasibility and appropriateness of implementing the FairTax model in Georgia’s state taxation system.

SR 391, sponsored by Sen. John Albers (R-Roswell), would examine the implications, safeguards, and opportunities related to artificial intelligence and digital currency use in Georgia.

SR 393, sponsored by Sen. Harold Jones II (D-Augusta), would evaluate current support systems and recommend policies to enhance services for Georgia’s 1 million+ family caregivers.

SR 424, sponsored by Sen. Chuck Hufstetler (R-Rome), would evaluate franchise fee policies, particularly their impact on unincorporated areas and large electricity customers.

SR 429, sponsored by Sen. Max Burns (R-Sylvania), would explore reforms to Georgia’s felony disenfranchisement laws and consider restoring voting rights for individuals reintegrating into society.

SR 431, sponsored by Sen. Sally Harrell (D-Atlanta), would evaluate how social media and AI affect children’s health, safety, and privacy, and to recommend improvements to online protection laws.

SR 444, sponsored by Sen. Sonya Halpern (D-Atlanta), would review Georgia’s civil rights laws, identify gaps in anti-discrimination protections, and recommend legislation to ensure equal access to employment, housing, public accommodations, and services.

SR 474, sponsored by Sen. Nan Orrock (D-Atlanta), would explore solutions to rising student debt and low postsecondary completion rates, including the feasibility of a means-tested scholarship program to improve access to affordable higher education in Georgia.

SR 476, sponsored by Sen. Sonya Halpern (D-Atlanta), would assess the impact of waivers granted to local school systems on educational outcomes, teacher retention, and equity, following a five-year extension of these waivers by the State Board of Education.

 

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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