Hot Topics at Georgia’s Upcoming Legislative Session

By the time you read this, the 2024 elections will be in the rearview mirror, and everyone will be relieved to be finished with the onslaught of political ads. Those of us who serve in the Georgia General Assembly are looking toward the next legislative session, which begins January 13, 2025, and lasts 40 days. Our one constitutional responsibility is to pass a balanced budget (unlike the federal government), but there will be many competing priorities that will result in legislation.

One of the "hot topics" for the upcoming session will be litigation reform, which has become a big issue due to the impact of large jury verdicts on businesses throughout the state. Some businesses have left Georgia, despite its overall business friendly environment that has resulted in the state being named the No. 1 State to do Business for multiple years. Litigation reform is a complex issue that requires balancing the rights of individuals to seek their day in court with fairness and appropriate judgments. Like many other topics, the result remains to be seen, but there will almost certainly be negotiations between parties that fundamentally disagree.

Most would prefer to keep their hard-earned dollars rather than send them to the government, and we are currently on track to further reduce the state income tax. Working with Gov. Brian Kemp, we think you are better equipped to decide how to spend your money than the government is, and we look forward to further progress.

Public safety and crime issues are always important to legislators and citizens alike, and our general assembly has a long history of backing law enforcement and first responders. Gang and trafficking activities are problematic throughout the state. Our law enforcement and first responder communities are second to none in Cherokee. Our judiciary system is also very strong, and its treatment court program is a model for the whole state.

Early childhood education and literacy have also received much attention over the past few years, and I expect this to continue. We know that kids who are not reading on grade level by 3rd grade have statistically worse outcomes in life. We are fortunate to have excellent schools in Cherokee County, but not all of Georgia's school districts perform at such a high level.

I serve as the chairperson for the Children and Families Committee in the Senate, and we are constantly working to improve the foster care and adoption systems in Georgia. As a physician, I also work on healthcare issues, especially patient safety and insurance reform. Mental health and substance abuse issues continue to impact families throughout Georgia. Though we have made progress during the last few years, many still struggle. Improving access to treatment is a high priority under the Gold Dome.

Our legislative delegation is ready to hear your concerns and opinions, and we look forward to working to maintain the excellent quality of life enjoyed in Cherokee County. We work closely with your county officials and congressional representatives to address Cherokee County's explosive growth and many other important matters.

You can find us at Legis.Ga.gov, which is also a great place to track legislation and observe our proceedings. Please feel free to contact any of your senators or representatives. If you are unsure who represents you, log on to OpenStates.org and enter your address. I can also be reached via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by calling 404-656-3932. I am honored to serve you in the State Senate.