The 2026 Georgia legislative session is currently in its early stages, having officially convened on Monday, January 12, 2026.¹ This is the second year of the 158th General Assembly, and the atmosphere at the Gold Dome is heavily focused on fiscal policy, as Governor Brian Kemp delivers his final State of the State address of his term.

Here are the key developments and priorities emerging from the session so far:

1. Major Budget & Tax Proposals

Governor Kemp has proposed a massive spending plan for the Amended Fiscal Year 2026 and FY 2027, centered on returning surplus cash to residents:

• Income Tax Cuts: A proposal to accelerate the reduction of the state’s personal income tax rate to 4.99%, fulfilling a campaign promise three years ahead of schedule.

  

• Tax Rebates: A proposed $1 billion tax rebate, which would provide approximately $250 for single filers and up to $500 for married couples filing jointly.

  
  

• State Employee Raises: The governor has requested a one-time $2,000 pay supplement for all full-time state employees, including public school teachers and law enforcement officers.

  

• Property Tax Relief: House Speaker Jon Burns has indicated that the House will be "laser-focused" on making living in Georgia more affordable, with a specific push to address rising property taxes and potentially eliminate the homestead property tax statewide.

  

2. Infrastructure & Education

• Transportation: A significant $1.8 billion investment has been proposed to improve infrastructure, specifically targeting congestion on I-75.

  
  

• Literacy Efforts: Legislative leaders are prioritizing funding for literacy coaches and expanded screenings for learning challenges in K-12 schools.

  

• Cell Phone Ban: There is active discussion and legislation (like the "Distraction-Free Education Act") aimed at banning or severely restricting cell phone use in high school classrooms to improve student focus.

  

3. Key Bills on the "Hopper"

While many bills are still in committee, several notable pieces of legislation have already been introduced or are gaining traction:

• School Choice & Safety: Continued debate over school vouchers and new standards for school playgrounds and safety.

  

• Tort Reform: Following major legislation last year, the governor is pushing for further "comprehensive tort reform" to lower insurance premiums for businesses and individuals.

  

• Health & Social Issues: Bills have been filed regarding the regulation of kratom (HB 968) and requiring separate restroom/changing areas in schools based on biological sex.

  

• Legalized Gambling: There is renewed talk of a bill to legalize sports betting or casino gambling, though it remains a perennial "wait and see" issue.

  
  

4. Important Dates to Watch

The Georgia session is limited to 40 legislative days, which means it moves quickly.

• Crossover Day (March 6): The deadline for a bill to pass its original chamber to remain "alive" for the year.

  

• Sine Die (April 2): The final day of the 2026 session.