Ten weeks into the 2025 Legislative Session, we reached several major milestones, delivering real results for our farmers, job creators and hardworking Georgians.
We took action to cut taxes and put more money back into your pockets. The Senate passed House Bill 111, which lowers the state income tax rate from 5.39% to 5.19% beginning in 2025. The bill ensures additional tax cuts annually until the rate reaches 4.99%, delivering long-term relief for Georgia taxpayers. Additionally, House Bill 112 provides a one-time tax credit of $250 for individuals, $375 for heads of households, and $500 for married couples filing jointly. Both bills are now on their way to Governor Kemp’s desk, fulfilling yet another promise to ease the financial burden on Georgia families. Meanwhile, work continues on the state budget as Senate Appropriations Subcommittee hearings move us closer to finalizing the Fiscal Year 2026 budget.
On the legislative front, I’m proud to report that my bill, Senate Bill 55, the “Dignity and Pay Act,” passed out of the House on Tuesday, bringing us one step closer to enacting meaningful change and preventing employers from paying disabled employees’ below minimum wage.
This past Thursday, the Senate Education and Youth Committee passed three important bills to help our teachers and students. HB 307 gives students who struggle with reading or have dyslexia the support they need to improve. It also prohibits the outdated three-cueing system from being used to teach reading in public schools. HB 371 increases the cap on school construction projects to $375 million annually and sets new playground standards, making sure all students, regardless of ability, can play together.
Finally, I introduced Senate Resolution 237, encouraging the Professional Standards Commission to work with state education agencies to solve Georgia’s teacher shortage. Our teachers are the backbone of our education system, and we must ensure we’re doing all we can to support them.
I also want to highlight that SB 149 passed out of the House Higher Education Committee this week. This bill will update the definition of “approved schools” under the tuition equalization grant program. This allows students at newly accredited four-year colleges to qualify for financial assistance. Georgia has 32 incredible private colleges and universities, and this grant will help keep our students here and strengthen our workforce.
With just two weeks remaining in this legislative session, I encourage everyone to stay engaged and visit the Gold Dome to see the legislative process in action. If you have questions, concerns, or ideas, please don’t hesitate to contact my office. Serving the 4th Senate District under the Gold Dome is an honor.
