BILL YEARTA: Budget a primary concern as legislature pursues ‘aggressive agenda’

Jan. 8 marked the first day of the 2024 Legislative Session. It was great to catch up with colleagues as we began preparation for the legislative days ahead. Over the remaining days, we will introduce and discuss new bills, while revisiting 2023 bills still on the table that did not receive a floor vote before our day 40 deadline.

Gov. Brian Kemp gave his annual State of the State address covering accomplishments from last year while highlighting hopes for the next. The governor noted the progress we have made over the past few years where economic development, job growth, education, health care and public safety are concerned. He also highlighted that over the past year, Georgia citizens have benefited from nearly $5 billion of direct relief to taxpayers in the form of tax refunds, gas tax suspensions and homestead tax exemptions.

Gov. Kemp made clear that tax reform, education, healthcare, and public safety are top agenda items for the upcoming year. The governor also made it clear public safety is a top priority. He is proposing aggressive funding to ensure our law enforcement community has the support needed to ensure our safety. This year, he will push for an additional $3,000 pay raise for State Patrol officers, as well as Georgia’s correctional officers and other state law enforcement agencies.

The governor also covered the importance of increased school safety. He is proposing a permanent appropriation in the state budget for school security, which includes $104 million, specifically for safety improvements for each school to use at their discretion based on individual needs. Other areas of public safety highlighted include the continued efforts of ending the vile practice of Human Trafficking, as well as his hopes that the General Assembly pass the peace officer loan repayment program under consideration.

Health care continues to be a top concern as the governor recapped strides in recent years to lower costs, expand access, and incentivize more health care providers in the state.

Gov. Kemp touted the achievements of the Mental Health Parity Act, which have successfully given more Georgians access to services needed. To build on the recent success of newly implemented programs, the governor is proposing a total increase of $205 million for DBHDD and other entities that address mental health in our state.

Tuesday marked the start of “budget week.” Before addressing any legislative action, the state budget will be our primary focus. We are constitutionally required to pass a balanced budget before adjournment. As our population continues to grow, so does the need for improved infrastructure. Education, health care, public safety and infrastructure will remain top contenders for budget allocations. As always, our local delegation will work hard to ensure we bring home needed funding for various projects in our region of the state. The budget is a living document that will change many times before final passage, usually in the last days of the session.

Committees within the General Assembly are incredibly important as this is where the legislative rubber meets the road. All bills introduced must be properly vetted through the committee process before making it to the House floor for a full vote. If passed, the legislation then moves to the Senate side to begin their committee process.

As we make our way through the legislative session, be on the lookout for updates on the latest issues, as well as the budget. With an aggressive agenda ahead, we look forward to working together in passing legislation for the betterment of our great state and district. Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to serve, and if you need anything at all feel free to contact our office directly.