As the Georgia General Assembly reconvenes on Thursday, January 14th, 2021, there are several key legislative items on the agenda that will be discussed and debated under the Gold Dome. Here is an overview of what to expect:
COVID-19 Relief: One of the top priorities for lawmakers this session will be providing relief to Georgians who have been impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This could include measures such as expanding access to healthcare, providing financial assistance to small businesses and individuals, and increasing funding for vaccine distribution efforts.
Election Reform: Following the contentious 2020 election cycle, there has been much debate over election reform in Georgia. Some lawmakers are pushing for changes to the state’s voting laws, including requiring photo ID for absentee voting and limiting early voting hours. Others argue that these measures would disproportionately impact minority voters and are unnecessary.
Criminal Justice Reform: In the wake of nationwide protests against police brutality and racial injustice, criminal justice reform is expected to be a major topic of discussion this session. Lawmakers may consider measures such as increasing police accountability, reducing mandatory minimum sentences, and expanding access to rehabilitation programs for nonviolent offenders.
Education Funding: With many schools struggling to provide quality education during the pandemic, education funding is likely to be a key issue this session. Lawmakers may consider measures such as increasing funding for public schools, expanding access to broadband internet for remote learning, and providing financial assistance to families who have been impacted by school closures.
Healthcare: Healthcare is always a hot topic in Georgia, and this session is no exception. Lawmakers may consider measures such as expanding Medicaid, increasing funding for mental health services, and addressing healthcare disparities in rural areas of the state.
Overall, there are many important issues that will be discussed and debated under the Gold Dome this session. While it remains to be seen which measures will ultimately be passed into law, Georgians can expect a lively and productive legislative session in the coming months.
