As the Georgia General Assembly prepares to convene for the 2022 legislative session, there are several key issues that are expected to be at the forefront of the agenda. From education to healthcare to criminal justice reform, lawmakers will be tackling a wide range of issues that will impact the lives of Georgians across the state. Here’s a preview of what to expect under the Gold Dome this year.
Education
One of the top priorities for lawmakers this year will be education. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic continuing to disrupt learning across the state, there will likely be a focus on addressing the challenges faced by students and teachers alike. This could include increased funding for schools, expanded access to technology and broadband internet, and measures to address learning loss.
Another issue that is likely to come up is school choice. Supporters of school choice argue that families should have more options when it comes to choosing where their children attend school, including charter schools, private schools, and homeschooling. Opponents argue that these options can lead to a lack of accountability and reduced funding for public schools.
Healthcare
Healthcare is another area where lawmakers will be looking to make changes this year. One issue that is likely to come up is Medicaid expansion. Georgia is one of only 12 states that has not expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, which has left hundreds of thousands of Georgians without access to affordable healthcare. Supporters of expansion argue that it would provide coverage to those who need it most, while opponents argue that it would be too costly for the state.
Another healthcare issue that could come up this year is medical marijuana. Georgia currently has a limited medical marijuana program that allows patients with certain conditions to use low-THC cannabis oil. However, advocates are pushing for a more comprehensive program that would allow for the use of whole-plant cannabis and expand the list of qualifying conditions.
Criminal Justice Reform
Criminal justice reform is another area where lawmakers will be looking to make changes this year. One issue that is likely to come up is bail reform. Georgia currently has a cash bail system, which means that defendants must pay a certain amount of money in order to be released from jail before their trial. Critics argue that this system unfairly punishes low-income defendants who cannot afford bail, while supporters argue that it helps ensure that defendants show up for their court dates.
Another criminal justice issue that could come up this year is sentencing reform. Georgia has some of the harshest sentencing laws in the country, which has led to overcrowded prisons and high recidivism rates. Lawmakers may consider measures such as reducing mandatory minimum sentences or expanding alternatives to incarceration.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the issues that are likely to come up during the 2022 legislative session in Georgia. As lawmakers work to address these and other issues, it will be important for them to listen to the concerns of their constituents and work together to find solutions that benefit all Georgians.
