We are now well into the 2026 Legislative Session, and our work under the Gold Dome is moving quickly. Even with winter weather trying to slow things down, the Senate stayed on track thanks to the swift and tireless efforts of our first responders, linemen, National Guard members and Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) crews. Their dedication and professionalism kept our communities safe and allowed the Senate to remain focused on delivering results for Georgians.

Over the past several weeks, much of our time has been spent reviewing Governor Brian Kemp’s budget proposals for the Amended Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 and the FY 2027 budget. Thanks to years of conservative financial stewardship, Georgia’s economy remains among the strongest in the nation. That fiscal discipline allows us to make smart, strategic investments while respecting taxpayers and keeping our state on a path of long-term growth.

I am especially encouraged by the proposed $100 million investment for the rehabilitation and replacement of rural bridges, along with $250 million for GDOT’s Local Road Assistance Program. Reliable infrastructure is critical to keeping our state connected by supporting daily travel, commerce and emergency services across all 159 counties, particularly in our more rural areas. Senate Republicans remain focused on policies that strengthen families, grow our economy, and keep Georgia a great place to live, work, and raise a family. That means lowering costs, protecting homeowners, supporting educators, and ensuring government lives within its means, just like Georgia families do every day.

This week, the Senate took an important step forward for students and teachers with the final passage of Senate Bill 148. SB 148 expands flexibility in how learning happens by encouraging hands-on and outdoor education opportunities, while also making common-sense updates to teacher leave policies. This legislation helps students develop a deeper appreciation for the land that makes our state so unique and gives Middle Georgia educators access to learning environments that go beyond the traditional classroom. Just as importantly, it recognizes that teachers are the backbone of our schools and provides them with the support and flexibility they need to help students succeed. I was proud to support this legislation and grateful to my Senate colleagues for working together to see it across the finish line.

I also recently introduced Senate Bill 409 to protect Georgia homeowners by requiring greater transparency when insurance companies use aerial or satellite imagery to assess properties. While these tools can play a role in modern insurance practices, homeowners deserve proper notice and a clear understanding of how their property is being reviewed. SB 409 strikes a responsible balance between innovation and fairness, ensuring Georgia families are treated with respect.

We also made progress on one of our top priorities for protecting homeowners. Senate Bill 382 passed out of the Senate Committee on Finance and now moves forward in the legislative process. This bill would establish a statewide base-year homestead exemption for all local governments and streamline the process for calling referendums on local sales taxes. For too long, some homeowners have faced unrelenting property tax increases as local governments opted out of existing protections. SB 382 restores fairness and ensures everyone plays by the same rules. I look forward to continuing to push this legislation toward final passage.

We head into our fourth week under the Gold Dome, I appreciate hearing from you and value your input as the legislative session continues. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions, concerns, or ideas. It is an honor to represent you and to fight for Georgia’s future.