Legislative Updates
2026 Legislative Updates
Week 7 (beginning 2/23/2026)
Georgia lawmakers returned to the State Capitol on Monday, February 23, to begin the seventh week of the 2026 legislative session, marking a critical stretch as Crossover Day approaches. By the end of the week, the House reached Legislative Day 25—just two days shy of the deadline requiring most legislation to pass out of its chamber of origin.
Monday’s schedule was dedicated to a committee workday, where legislators spent long hours reviewing and debating bills before advancing them to the House floor. These meetings play a key role in shaping legislation ahead of full chamber consideration.
The most significant action of the week came with final passage of House Bill 973, the Amended Fiscal Year 2026 budget. The $43.6 billion spending plan includes $5.9 billion in additional funding and prioritizes taxpayer relief, public safety, mental health services and infrastructure improvements. Major allocations include $850 million for homeowner tax relief, more than $400 million for a new state mental health hospital and over $2 billion for transportation projects. The budget also provides one-time $2,000 supplements for state employees and educators and invests in workforce development, including a new College of Optometry at Georgia Southern University.
Lawmakers also approved a series of education-focused bills. House Bill 1193, the Georgia Early Literacy Act, aims to improve reading outcomes for K-3 students by funding literacy coaches, strengthening teacher training and requiring full-day kindergarten. House Bill 1030, the Math Matters Act, seeks to expand advanced math opportunities and increase instructional time. Additional measures addressed school safety, after-school care access, teacher recruitment and expanded career education opportunities.
Beyond education, the House passed legislation targeting homelessness prevention through expanded rental and utility assistance programs, as well as House Bill 1344 to address rising insurance costs by strengthening fraud penalties, improving claims processes and enhancing consumer protections.
Lawmakers will return to the Capitol on March 2 to begin the eighth week of session, leading into Crossover Day on March 6, when extended floor sessions are expected as legislators work to advance key bills before the deadline.
Week 6 (beginning 2/15/2026)
The Georgia House of Representatives returned to the State Capitol on February 17, 2026, for the sixth week of the legislative session, officially passing the halfway mark as we completed Legislative Day 22.
The week brought a steady — and often hectic — pace under the Gold Dome, as my colleagues and I balanced full days of committee meetings, met with constituents, and welcomed visitors from across the state, all while advancing a wide range of legislation.
Among the key measures we passed was House Bill 1063, designed to protect Georgia families and small businesses from shouldering the costs associated with the rapid growth of large data centers. The bill would prevent utilities from passing those costs on to residential and retail customers while reinforcing oversight by the Georgia Public Service Commission.
We also approved House Bill 419, which would require colleges and universities to maintain supplies of opioid antagonists like naloxone on campus. The measure allows students and staff to carry and administer the medication and provides liability protections for those responding in emergency situations.
Several bills focused on supporting children and families. House Bill 256 would expand the “Foster Parents Bill of Rights” to include relative caregivers and fictive kin, while House Bill 943 would establish a pilot program to improve early autism screening and services for children in foster care—an effort aimed at increasing stability and improving long-term outcomes.
Student safety was also a priority. House Bill 970 would expand access to sports physicals by allowing more qualified healthcare providers to perform them and would introduce cardiovascular screenings for student-athletes beginning in the 2026–2027 school year.
In the area of public safety, we passed House Bill 1161 to clarify that drivers must pull over to the right when being stopped by law enforcement, helping improve safety for both motorists and officers.
The House also unanimously passed House Bill 1061, known as the “Mandi Ballinger Act,” which I was proud to sponsor. This legislation creates a study committee to evaluate the potential transition of certain 17-year-olds—particularly those charged with non-violent first offenses—into Georgia’s juvenile justice system, ensuring any future changes are carefully planned and responsibly implemented.
In addition to these measures, we advanced a number of other bills addressing healthcare access, workforce needs, tax policy, environmental management, and firefighter safety.
As we move into the final weeks of the session, we will continue our work in committee rooms and on the House floor, with Crossover Day approaching—a key deadline for legislation to move between chambers. While the pace of the session is demanding, it is truly an honor to serve as your state representative and represent our community under the Gold Dome. 4 (beginning 2/2/2026)
The Georgia House of Representatives returned to the Gold Dome on Monday, February 2, for Legislative Day 10, marking the start of a busy fourth week of the 2026 session. With Day 10 behind us, we’re now more than a quarter of the way through the 40-day session, and the pace is picking up as the House begins to narrow in on key priorities that matter to families across our district.
The biggest development this week was passage of the House’s amended budget. The House Appropriations Committee advanced House Bill 973, our version of the Amended Fiscal Year 2026 (AFY 2026) budget, which funds state government through June 30, 2026. The House Rules Committee placed the bill on the calendar, and on Thursday the full House approved it with bipartisan support. This amended budget is built on a revised revenue estimate of $42.3 billion and includes $3.3 billion in surplus funds—adding up to a $4.5 billion adjustment, or an 11.9% increase over the original FY 2026 budget. Put simply: HB 973 reflects both Georgia’s strong revenue picture and the House’s commitment to use those resources responsibly.
For our local communities, the amended budget includes a strong focus on property tax relief. The House directs $850 million in surplus funds to the Homeowner Tax Relief Grant program, intended to provide meaningful relief for families as assessed home values—and tax bills—have risen in many counties. That’s one of the clearest ways we can help working families right now, and it remains a top priority of House leadership this session.
Education is another major focus. HB 973 includes $366 million for $2,000 pay supplements for K–12 teachers and school personnel—recognizing the people who keep our classrooms running, from bus drivers and nutrition workers to custodians and school nurses. It also includes $17.2 million for $2,000 pay supplements for early learning teachers and assistants. For students planning for college or technical training, the budget supports the HOPE Scholarship and includes $300 million in state matching funds for the need-based DREAMS Scholarship initiative, designed to expand access to higher education for students who might otherwise be left behind. We also included funding for a statewide Career Navigator System to help connect students, jobseekers, and employers so more Georgians can find a clear pathway into good-paying jobs.
Public safety and infrastructure were also central to the House budget. HB 973 includes significant investments for Department of Corrections security and facility upgrades, along with resources to address projected capacity needs. On transportation, the budget includes major funding for congestion relief projects and road improvements, plus substantial support for rural bridge repair and replacement—critical in communities where agriculture and industry depend on safe, reliable routes.
Healthcare and behavioral health were also addressed in meaningful ways. The House budget includes investments to expand residency slots and strengthen rural medical access, including a grant program to support rural medical and dental clinics. On mental health, HB 973 begins the work of designing and constructing a new regional psychiatric hospital in Atlanta and supports additional forensic restoration capacity—an important step as Georgia works to reduce long waiting lists for treatment beds. As Chair of the House Judiciary Juvenile Committee, I’m especially attentive to how these investments intersect with child welfare, court systems, and the availability of services for children and families in crisis.
Beyond the budget, the House advanced several bills this week that speak directly to protecting families and strengthening our communities. We passed House Bill 350 to modernize Georgia’s Safe Place for Newborns Act by allowing eligible locations—such as fire stations and medical facilities—to install newborn safety devices. These devices create a safe, legal, and anonymous option for mothers in crisis and can prevent tragic and unsafe abandonment.
We also passed House Bill 659, which would expand loan repayment and financial assistance programs to include optometrists—an important rural healthcare workforce need. The House budget complements that effort by including funding tied to establishing a College of Optometry at Georgia Southern University, helping grow Georgia’s pipeline of eye care professionals.
Agriculture issues were also on the calendar. House Bill 946 seeks to strengthen feral hog control measures to reduce damage to farms and wildlife habitats—losses that are estimated to cost Georgia agriculture millions each year.
This week also included a joint session for the State of the Judiciary Address from Georgia Supreme Court Chief Justice Nels S.D. Peterson, who spoke about judicial independence, safety concerns for judges, and reforms aimed at improving the court system—especially in cases involving children and families.
Next week, the House returns Monday, February 9, for Legislative Day 15. If you’re ever at the Capitol, I’d love to visit—please contact my office to schedule a meeting. As always, thank you for allowing me to serve you and for staying engaged in the work we’re doing on behalf of our district and our state.
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Week 3 (beginning 1/26/2026)
After “budget week,” we began the third week of the 2026 legislative session with a pro forma Monday at the Georgia House of Representatives, following Brian Kemp’s State of Emergency declaration due to Winter Storm Fern. Once road conditions improved, my colleagues and I returned to Atlanta on Tuesday and immediately resumed legislative work.
One of our primary focuses this week was the state budget. House Appropriations subcommittees met to review portions of both the Amended Fiscal Year 2026 and Fiscal Year 2027 budgets. These meetings allow us to closely examine agency requests and ensure taxpayer dollars are being used responsibly. Once each subcommittee completes its work, the full Appropriations Committee will consider both budgets before they head to the House floor and then on to the Senate.
When we reconvened, we also received updates on the storm’s impact across North Georgia. More than 250,000 Georgia Power customers lost electricity, along with tens of thousands served by Habersham EMC. The House paused to recognize electric utility crews, state agencies, and local law enforcement who worked around the clock under difficult conditions to restore power and keep communities safe. Their dedication made a real difference for families across our state.
Wednesday marked the first meeting of the House Rules Committee this session. We took a moment to honor the late Representative Mandi Ballinger before setting our first Rules Calendar. Later that day, the House passed its first bill of 2026—House Bill 443. This measure creates reef and migratory fish endorsements for recreational fishing licenses, with modest annual fees directed to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. These funds would allow Georgia to conduct its own offshore fish surveys instead of relying solely on federal data, helping ensure our coastal resources are managed with Georgia-specific information. The bill has now been sent back to the Senate for further consideration.
We also unanimously adopted House Resolution 1008, which updates Georgia’s statewide water management plan. The changes streamline regional water councils, extend appointment terms, and ensure representation from key sectors such as municipal, agricultural, industrial, and energy users—important steps toward strengthening long-term water planning across the state.
Meanwhile, the General Assembly gave final passage to Senate Bill 148. If signed into law, it would bring several updates to public schools, including allowing hunting safety instruction for middle and high school students, creating outdoor learning center pilot programs, increasing personal leave options for educators, and making it easier for schools to use automated external defibrillators during emergencies.
House Speaker Jon Burns also announced a major legislative priority this session: the Georgia HOME Act of 2026. This proposal aims to phase out homestead property taxes on primary residences by 2032 while giving local governments tools to replace lost revenue and providing phased-in tax relief for homeowners.
As we wrapped up the week, Georgia prepared for another round of winter weather, prompting a second State of Emergency. Looking ahead, the House reconvenes Monday, and the pace will continue to pick up. These are the weeks when much of the foundational work of the session takes shape.
I remain committed to keeping you informed as legislation moves forward. It is truly an honor to serve, and I encourage everyone to stay engaged as we work on the issues that matter most to our communities.
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Week 2 (beginning 1/19/2026)
On Tuesday, January 20, my colleagues and I returned to the Georgia House of Representatives for the second week of the 2026 legislative session—often referred to as “budget week.” While we did not meet on the House floor, members of both chambers spent the week in joint Appropriations hearings, listening as Brian Kemp and state agency leaders presented their budget recommendations for the current and upcoming fiscal years.
Passing a balanced budget is the General Assembly’s single constitutional responsibility, which makes this week one of the most important of the entire session. Governor Kemp outlined proposals for both the Amended Fiscal Year 2026 budget, which adjusts spending through June 30, and the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, which sets priorities beginning July 1.
The governor highlighted more than $9.7 billion returned to taxpayers since 2021 and proposed another one-time tax rebate to help families manage rising costs. His plan also includes a $2,000 pay supplement for state employees and school personnel, investments in rural infrastructure, and continued support for Georgia’s forestry industry following storm-related impacts. These proposals reflect a focus on helping working families while strengthening key industries across our state.
Education was a major theme throughout the hearings. The budget includes additional funding for colleges and technical schools, full funding of the HOPE Scholarship, and a historic proposal to launch Georgia’s first need-based college aid program, known as the DREAMS Scholarship. There is also funding for a new foster care scholarship, expanded workforce training, and improvements to campus facilities—all aimed at helping students succeed while preparing Georgia’s future workforce.
We also heard important updates on public safety, transportation, housing, and behavioral health. One encouraging milestone came from Georgia’s behavioral health system, which has made significant progress in expanding community-based services. The budget includes new funding for housing vouchers to help individuals with mental illness avoid homelessness—an important step forward that reflects years of bipartisan work.
Georgia’s state economist shared that while revenues remain strong and unemployment is low, job growth has slowed and families continue to feel pressure from higher everyday costs. That context is critical as we work to build a responsible budget that meets today’s needs while planning for tomorrow.
Later in the week, Jon Burns addressed lawmakers and encouraged us to stay focused on our constitutional duty to pass a balanced budget, even as winter weather threatened to disrupt the schedule. Out of caution, Governor Kemp declared a State of Emergency ahead of the storm, allowing emergency agencies to prepare and mobilize resources to protect communities across Georgia.
With joint hearings now complete, House Appropriations subcommittees have begun reviewing specific sections of the budget in greater detail. Each subcommittee will pass its portion forward before the full House Appropriations Committee assembles the final budget bills for consideration. This process ultimately leads to two balanced budget proposals that will be debated on the House floor.
I’m also excited to share that the House Page Program begins soon, offering students ages 12 to 18 the chance to visit the Capitol and assist members on the House floor. For more than 50 years, this program has helped inspire young Georgians to learn about government and civic service, and I encourage families to explore this opportunity.
As we move forward—weather permitting—I remain committed to working on behalf of our community and keeping you informed every step of the way. Budget week sets the foundation for the entire legislative session, and I look forward to continuing this important work for Georgia families. Thank you, as always, for the privilege of serving you.
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Week 1 (beginning 1/12/2026)
I was glad to be back at the Capitol on January 12 as the Georgia House of Representatives officially opened the 2026 legislative session. It was a special way to start the year, highlighted by a beautiful violin performance of Georgia on My Mind from Miss Georgia 2025. It truly set a positive tone for the work ahead.
We also took time to recognize the newly restored House Chamber. After months of hard work by the Georgia Building Authority and dedicated staff, the chamber now blends historic character with modern updates. From locally produced carpet to gold accents sourced right here in Georgia, the renovation reflects pride in our state’s heritage. I encourage everyone to visit the “People’s House” and see it for yourself.
One of our first official actions was adopting the legislative calendar for 2026. Georgia lawmakers meet for 40 nonconsecutive days, with the final day—known as Sine Die—scheduled for April 2. This calendar helps legislators, staff, and visitors plan as we move through the session.
I am also honored to share that I now serve as Chair of the House Judiciary Juvenile Committee. This role allows me to continue advocating for children and families across our state, and I look forward to working with my colleagues on legislation that supports Georgia’s most vulnerable.
Midweek, many of us attended the annual Eggs & Issues breakfast, where Brian Kemp outlined several priorities for the year, including major transportation investments, infrastructure improvements, and support for communities ahead of the 2026 World Cup in Atlanta.
Later in the week, the House and Senate gathered for the governor’s final State of the State Address. Governor Kemp focused on lowering the cost of living, strengthening education and workforce training, supporting law enforcement, and continuing efforts to combat human trafficking and gang-related crime. He also highlighted billions in tax relief delivered to Georgians since 2021 and announced proposals for another one-time tax rebate, additional income tax reductions, and a $2,000 pay supplement for state employees, including educators and public safety officers.
Education remained a major focus, with continued funding for K–12 schools, higher teacher pay, expanded college and technical education opportunities, and new investments in healthcare training. The governor also announced a new needs-based scholarship program designed to help students graduate with less debt.
We closed out the week with a Celebration of Service honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—a powerful reminder of his enduring call to serve others with compassion and unity.
Now that the session is underway, I’ll be spending much of the next few months at the Capitol working on behalf of our community, especially on the state budget—one of our most important responsibilities. I look forward to keeping you updated and appreciate the opportunity to serve you and our great state
2025 Legislative Update
Week 3
This past week, my colleagues and I returned to the State Capitol after a winter storm swept through much of central & southern Georgia. Despite the chilly start, we got right back to work, with one of our main highlights being Chief Justice Michael Boggs’ State of the Judiciary address. House committees also kicked into high gear, and while the workload picked up, we took time to reflect on important historical moments and celebrate cultural milestones.
Honoring the Past & Committing to the Future
We started the week on a solemn note, remembering the millions of lives lost in the Holocaust. The House passed House Resolution 50, recognizing January 27, 2025, as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. This year also marked the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau—a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.
State of the Judiciary Address
On Tuesday, Chief Justice Michael Boggs spoke before a joint session of the House and Senate, giving an update on Georgia’s judicial system. He shared an encouraging statistic—public confidence in state courts is on the rise, with over half of Americans viewing them positively. That’s important since more than 95% of court cases nationwide are handled at the state level.
A big topic this year is the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the legal system. Georgia courts are already studying how AI could impact the judicial process, and a committee has been formed to explore its potential benefits and challenges.
Chief Justice Boggs also revisited an issue he raised last year: the shortage of court reporters. To address this, the Judicial Council is proposing a balanced plan that would allow some court proceedings to be recorded digitally. This would help speed up the judicial process and reduce delays for victims awaiting justice.
Another major concern is what he called “legal deserts”—rural areas in Georgia that have little to no access to legal services. In fact, seven counties in our state don’t have a single licensed attorney. To tackle this, a new Supreme Court committee has been created to find ways to improve legal services for underserved communities.
The chief justice also highlighted the progress being made to support veterans in the criminal justice system. He praised Cobb County’s Veterans Accountability and Treatment Court, which helps veterans struggling with PTSD, substance abuse, and other challenges get the resources they need to stay out of the system.
On the security front, threats against judges and courts have been increasing, both in Georgia and across the country. To combat this, Chief Justice Boggs proposed upgrading security measures and providing more training to judges and lawmakers on handling high-risk situations.
Budget & Legislative Work
Meanwhile, the House Appropriations Subcommittees were hard at work reviewing sections of the Amended Fiscal Year (AFY) 2025 budget. Each subcommittee examines a portion of the governor’s budget proposal before sending it to the full Appropriations Committee. From there, it will move through the legislative process before reaching the governor’s desk.
House committees also began meeting to discuss proposed legislation. Once a bill makes it through committee, it goes to the Rules Committee before getting scheduled for a full House vote. If it passes the House, it moves to the Senate for further debate. If both chambers pass different versions of the bill, a conference committee works out the differences before the final version is sent to the governor.
Honoring a Georgia Legend & Celebrating Culture
This week, we had the honor of unveiling former Dean of the House Calvin Smyre’s official portrait at the State Capitol. Smyre, who served an incredible 48 years in the Georgia House of Representatives, is the longest-serving member in state history. Former governors, lawmakers, and community leaders gathered to celebrate his legacy, and his portrait will now hang in the Capitol for future generations to see.
We also took time to celebrate Lunar New Year, a major cultural holiday observed across Asia. The festivities at the Capitol featured a traditional lion dance and recognition of several community leaders. Among those honored were the first Indian female Olympian to win gold in track and field and the Chinese-American Business Association of Atlanta, which is celebrating 32 years of service.
Remembering Those We Lost
To close out the week, we paused for a moment of silence in honor of the victims of a tragic mid-air collision at Reagan Washington National Airport. Two of those lost had ties to Georgia—Sam Lilley, a Georgia Southern graduate, and Ryan O’Hara, a Blackhawk helicopter crew chief from Lilburn. Our hearts go out to their families and all those affected by this tragedy.
Looking Ahead
We went back at the Capitol on Monday, February 3rd, for another busy week of legislative work. As we move forward, I encourage you to reach out with any questions, concerns, or ideas. Whether you’d like to schedule a phone call or visit the Capitol, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me at 404-656-7855 or via email at beth.camp@house.ga.gov.
Thank you for allowing me to serve as your representative. I look forward to keeping you updated as we continue our work!
~Beth
Week 1 & Budget Week
On Monday, January 13, 2025, the Georgia House of Representatives kicked off the first day of the 2025 legislative session, marking the beginning of a new biennium for the 158th Georgia General Assembly. All 180 members of the House took the Oath of Office, with Georgia Supreme Court Chief Justice Michael Boggs administering the ceremony. I am thankful that my husband, Mark, and our daughter, Meredith, were with me for this special moment. After the swearing-in, we got right to business, electing Speaker Jon Burns (R-Newington) for another term, and Speaker Pro Tempore Jan Jones (R-Milton) also was re-elected to her post.
After those formalities, we took a moment to honor the incredible life of former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away in Plains, Georgia, on December 29, 2024. As the 39th president of the United States and Georgia’s 76th Governor, President Carter’s impact on both our state and the nation was monumental. We observed a moment of silence to reflect on his legacy and the enormous contributions he made to Georgia and the country.
We set the legislative calendar for 2025. The General Assembly will be in session for 40 non-consecutive days, and "Sine Die" — the last day of session — will be on April 4, 2025. The work ahead is big, but we’re ready to get to it.
Governor Kemp’s State of the State Address
On Thursday, both the House and Senate gathered for a joint session in the House Chamber to hear Governor Brian Kemp’s annual State of the State address. The governor covered a lot of ground, starting by reflecting on the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene last September. The storm was Georgia’s worst in history, claiming 34 lives and leaving behind widespread destruction. The state has already allocated $100 million in aid to support the agriculture and timber industries, and we’re all focused on helping those communities rebuild.
Governor Kemp also spoke about the ongoing challenges Georgians face with inflation and the rising cost of living. Despite those challenges, the state has been able to keep taxes low, with a series of tax cuts and gas tax suspensions. He proposed further tax cuts, including reducing the state income tax rate from 5.39% to 5.19%. This could save Georgians an estimated $7.5 billion over the next decade.
He also mentioned the rising insurance costs, especially for small businesses, and highlighted his priority to pass tort reform legislation this session. This is a crucial step in stabilizing insurance rates and protecting Georgia businesses.
We also paused to reflect on the tragedy at Apalachee High School and honor the heroes who helped prevent it from being an even worse disaster. The governor noted that over $294 million has already been allocated to school safety, with an additional $159 million proposed in his budget to continue these efforts.
Committee Appointments
This week, the House Committee on Assignments finalized its work, and I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been appointed to serve as Chair of the Intragovernmental Coordination Committee. This committee is tasked with all local legislation. I was also assigned to Judiciary- Juvenile; Energy, Utilities & Telecommunications; Agriculture & Consumer Affairs; State Planning; and Ways & Means. These committees will be crucial as we work through the issues facing our state in the coming months, and I look forward to contributing to them.
Celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
To end the week, I joined Governor Kemp, Speaker Burns, and Lt. Gov. Jan Jones for a special Celebration of Service to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This was a powerful event that reminded us all of Dr. King’s enduring legacy and his commitment to equality, justice, and service to others. It was also a call to action for all of us to engage in meaningful service within our communities.
Looking Ahead
Beginning January 21st, we were scheduled to dive into the state budget process, often called “budget week.” This is when we hear from Governor Kemp and various state agencies about their budget requests. It’s always a busy and important time, but this was condensed to a Thursday afternoon meeting only due to the snow and ice this week. Thankfully, Appropriation subcommittees will be holding meetings starting bright and early Monday, January 27th where all aspects of the Budget will be discussed.
Throughout this session, I’m committed to representing our community and keeping you in the loop on everything that’s happening at the Capitol. Be sure to follow the House’s social media accounts on X (Twitter) @GaHouseHub, Instagram @gahouseofrepresentatives, and Facebook for updates. You can also watch committee meetings and livestreams on the House’s website. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to me directly at beth.camp@house.ga.gov or call me at 404-656-7855.
Thank you for giving me the privilege of serving as your state representative for the 2025-2026 legislative term. I’m looking forward to what we can accomplish together this session!
~Beth
Week 7
Week Beginning 2/20/2024
As we delve into the intricate matters of the legislative landscape, I am pleased to present a comprehensive overview of the notable achievements and milestones from the seventh week of our 2024 legislative session.
1. Safeguarding Minors: House Bill 993
The House unanimously passed House Bill 993, marking a significant stride in the protection of Georgia's vulnerable citizens. This legislation introduces criminal penalties for individuals engaged in knowingly and intentionally grooming minors through electronic means for sexual offenses or human trafficking. This decisive action reinforces our commitment to justice, dignity, and the protection of human rights.
2. Addressing the Opioid Crisis: House Bill 1170
In an effort to confront the opioid crisis, the House passed House Bill 1170, requiring government buildings with Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to stock opioid antagonists. This bipartisan initiative aims to provide timely assistance during opioid overdoses and underscores our commitment to public health and safety.
3. Election Security: House Bill 986
The House advanced House Bill 986, known as the "AI Transparency Protection Act." This groundbreaking legislation addresses election interference through artificial intelligence-generated deep fake technology. The bill introduces felony offenses for the creation and solicitation of deep fake content in campaign advertisements, ensuring the integrity of our democratic processes.
4. Educational Opportunities: House Bill 995
House Bill 995 received passage, mandating public school systems to administer a nationally recognized multiple-aptitude battery assessment. Focused on 11th and 12th grade students, the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery aims to guide students towards military career paths, aligning their abilities with opportunities in the National Guard and armed forces.
5. Behavioral Healthcare Initiative: House Bill 1077
To enhance behavioral healthcare in Georgia, the House focused on House Bill 1077. This legislation establishes a student loan repayment initiative for behavioral health practitioners, incentivizing their engagement and addressing the shortage of mental health providers, particularly those accepting Medicaid patients.
6. Additional Legislative Achievements
In addition to the aforementioned bills, the House passed several others covering diverse areas such as disability benefits, special needs scholarships, social work licensing, alcohol sales regulations, and more.
As we approach "Crossover Day" on February 29, the deadline for legislation eligibility this year, I invite your valuable insights and concerns. Your input plays a pivotal role in shaping the legislative discourse. Feel free to reach out to my Capitol office at 404-656-7855 or via email at beth.camp@house.ga.gov.
Thank you for your continued engagement, and I look forward to representing your interests diligently.
~Beth
Week 7
Week Beginning 2/20/2024
As we delve into the intricate matters of the legislative landscape, I am pleased to present a comprehensive overview of the notable achievements and milestones from the seventh week of our 2024 legislative session.
1. Safeguarding Minors: House Bill 993
The House unanimously passed House Bill 993, marking a significant stride in the protection of Georgia's vulnerable citizens. This legislation introduces criminal penalties for individuals engaged in knowingly and intentionally grooming minors through electronic means for sexual offenses or human trafficking. This decisive action reinforces our commitment to justice, dignity, and the protection of human rights.
2. Addressing the Opioid Crisis: House Bill 1170
In an effort to confront the opioid crisis, the House passed House Bill 1170, requiring government buildings with Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to stock opioid antagonists. This bipartisan initiative aims to provide timely assistance during opioid overdoses and underscores our commitment to public health and safety.
3. Election Security: House Bill 986
The House advanced House Bill 986, known as the "AI Transparency Protection Act." This groundbreaking legislation addresses election interference through artificial intelligence-generated deep fake technology. The bill introduces felony offenses for the creation and solicitation of deep fake content in campaign advertisements, ensuring the integrity of our democratic processes.
4. Educational Opportunities: House Bill 995
House Bill 995 received passage, mandating public school systems to administer a nationally recognized multiple-aptitude battery assessment. Focused on 11th and 12th grade students, the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery aims to guide students towards military career paths, aligning their abilities with opportunities in the National Guard and armed forces.
5. Behavioral Healthcare Initiative: House Bill 1077
To enhance behavioral healthcare in Georgia, the House focused on House Bill 1077. This legislation establishes a student loan repayment initiative for behavioral health practitioners, incentivizing their engagement and addressing the shortage of mental health providers, particularly those accepting Medicaid patients.
6. Additional Legislative Achievements
In addition to the aforementioned bills, the House passed several others covering diverse areas such as disability benefits, special needs scholarships, social work licensing, alcohol sales regulations, and more.
As we approach "Crossover Day" on February 29, the deadline for legislation eligibility this year, I invite your valuable insights and concerns. Your input plays a pivotal role in shaping the legislative discourse. Feel free to reach out to my Capitol office at 404-656-7855 or via email at beth.camp@house.ga.gov.
Thank you for your continued engagement, and I look forward to representing your interests diligently.
~Beth
Week 6
Week beginning Feb 12, 2024
Forgive this being a week late. I am diligently working on a number of bills trying to get them through the House before Cross Over on 2/29. The Georgia House of Representatives kicked off the sixth week of the 2024 legislative session on Monday, February 12. We convened in the House Chamber for four days and made significant progress as we passed 34 bills and resolutions by the end of the week to send to our Senate counterparts. By Tuesday, we reached Legislative Day 20, which means we are now more than halfway through our 40-day session. With “Crossover Day” looming on Legislative Day 28, we are focused on perfecting legislation for consideration and advancing notable measures on the House floor.
The House voted on an important measure this week, House Bill 1037, which would create the Georgia Commission on Maternal and Infant Health. The commission would be assigned to the Georgia Department of Public Health and consist of 14 members, and the appointees would include an obstetrician, either a pediatrician or neonatologist, a midwife and a representative of a perinatal facility. The commission would be charged with soliciting views from perinatal facilities, healthcare providers and related professional associations on the state of Georgia’s perinatal care and give consideration to the current recommendations of medical and scientific organizations working on perinatal care. The commission would also be tasked with making policy recommendations regarding perinatal care programs and establishing a way to measure the quality and effectiveness of perinatal care in Georgia. Under HB 1037, the commission would submit state-wide policy recommendations based on its findings no later than June 30, 2026. Through this commission, this legislation aims to examine the causes of maternal and infant deaths in our state and provide policymakers with a more holistic view of these issues so that we can continue our work to improve maternal and infant health in Georgia.
Continuing our commitment to Georgia’s families, the House also took up legislation this week to expand parental leave for our state employees and teachers. The House first led the way on this issue in 2020, and, subsequently, House Bill 146 was signed into law in 2021 to provide state employees and teachers with up to 120 hours, or three weeks, of paid parental leave after the birth of their child or after an adoptive or foster child is first placed in their home. House Bill 1010, which passed in the House on Thursday, would modify the current law by extending paid parental leave for state employees to six weeks, doubling the amount of time state employees currently receive. If both parents are state employees, they would each be entitled to six weeks of paid leave, with the flexibility to split these weeks over a twelve-month period. Recognizing that the current three-week period following the birth, adoption or foster care placement of a child often falls short for many parents, HB 1010 would address this by granting parents additional time at home with their families. Also, by expanding this crucial benefit to our state employees and teachers, our state could also retain and recruit the best and brightest workforce.
My colleagues and I also gave unanimous passage to House Bill 1022, the Colton-McNeill Act, which would fortify protections for disabled minors by elevating penalties for acts of cruelty against them. The legislation would address a critical gap in existing laws, seeking to impose harsher consequences for perpetrators who target vulnerable children. Under this bill, the severity of the offense would determine the length of imprisonment, with the first degree of cruelty to a disabled minor carrying a sentence ranging from 15 to 30 years, and the second degree of the crime would result in imprisonment between 10 and 30 years. By increasing penalties, the bill would send a clear message that our state will not tolerate the mistreatment of disabled children, striving to safeguard their well-being and ensure justice for those who suffer from such reprehensible acts.
The House also turned its attention toward our state’s education system and its workforce with the passage of House Bill 282. This legislation would provide a significant step to enhance career preparedness among middle and high school students in Georgia. By clarifying that the career course mandated by the State Board of Education must prioritize career readiness, HB 282 would underscore the importance of practical instruction and training experiences. With a focus on equipping students with essential skills for the workforce, the Department of Education would be tasked with assembling comprehensive resources and materials on career readiness and employability, ensuring that state public schools have access to vital tools for student success. With the minimum course of study slated for implementation by July 1, 2024, this legislation would pave the way for a more robust and effective approach in preparing our youth for future career paths.
This week, we also passed House Bill 874, a bill that would require every public school in Georgia to have a functional automated external defibrillator (AED) machine on the premises of school grounds at all times and during school-related functions. This crucial legislation highlights the importance of safeguarding the well-being of Georgia’s students by ensuring teachers and school staff have access to this vital, lifesaving equipment. Additionally, HB 847 would require schools in Georgia to create a written emergency action plan, conduct at least two emergency action practice drills annually and designate an internal response team to provide necessary training to team members and potential users of an AED. By guaranteeing the presence of AEDs and establishing protocols for their use, HB 874 would empower teachers and school staff to respond effectively in emergency situations. This bipartisan measure would align with Georgia’s commitment to prioritizing Georgia’s students and creating environments where timely medical intervention can significantly increase the chances of saving young lives.
We also passed the following House bills, resolutions and Senate bill during the sixth week of session:
• House Bill 53, which would remove the State Board of Registration for Foresters from within the Secretary of State and would establish the board as a separate entity administratively attached to the State Forestry Commission, beginning on January 1, 2025. Individuals nominated to the board by the governor would be required to be confirmed by the Senate. The board may issue cease and desist orders, as well as impose a fine of no more than $500 for violations. The bill would set the registration fee for a license at $200 and would allow for the amount to be adjusted according to the Consumer Price Index;
• House Bill 300, which would require solar power facility agreements to provide procedures for the decommissioning of a solar power facility;
• House Bill 409, which would authorize specified local authorities that operate public water or sewer systems to dispose of or grant easements in specified instances;
• House Bill 461,which would update current law relating to the imposition of regulatory fees by local governments to require the proceeds of regulatory fees collected by a local government to be used for the related regulatory activity and not the general operations of the local government. HB 461 would eliminate the ability for a local government to impose a fee for construction projects classified as renovation based on the cost of the projec
