Legislative Update for Businesses - January 17th

Legislative Update: Governor Kemp’s Vision for Georgia’s Economic Future

This past week, Governor Brian Kemp laid out his legislative priorities and reaffirmed Georgia’s commitment to pro-business policies during two key events: the Eggs and Issues Breakfast in Atlanta on Tuesday and the State of the State address at the Capitol on Thursday. These events highlighted the governor’s focus on lawsuit reform, tax relief, public safety, and economic growth, providing a clear roadmap for the legislative session.

Lawsuit Reform Takes Center Stage
Speaking at the Eggs and Issues Breakfast, Governor Kemp emphasized that lawsuit reform is his “top legislative priority” for the session, a message he reiterated during his State of the State address. He outlined plans to introduce a comprehensive and fair legislative package designed to bring Georgia’s legal environment in line with its neighbors.

“I will soon be unveiling a robust legislative package that will bring balance to our proceedings and parity with our neighbors,” Kemp said on Tuesday. He explained how the current legal climate increases insurance costs, discourages job creation, and places undue strain on small businesses and healthcare providers. The governor praised Lt. Governor Burt Jones and Speaker Jon Burns for their efforts in studying the issue and pledged to work alongside the business community to pass meaningful reforms.

Accelerating Tax Relief and Economic Growth
In his State of the State address on Thursday, Governor Kemp announced the acceleration of Georgia’s historic income tax cuts, proposing to lower the rate to 5.19% this year. This move is projected to save taxpayers $7.5 billion over the next decade, reinforcing Georgia’s reputation as a low-tax, pro-business state.

Kemp also highlighted the state’s remarkable economic success during his tenure, including the creation of 193,000 private-sector jobs and $90 billion in investments. These achievements reflect Georgia’s strong economic foundations and its commitment to fostering growth.

Infrastructure, Safety, and Surplus Funds
Governor Kemp detailed plans to invest in infrastructure and allocate portions of Georgia’s $16.5 billion budget surplus. Enhancements to public safety remain a top priority, with additional funding for school safety and law enforcement. Kemp also celebrated the state’s progress in combating gang violence and human trafficking, emphasizing the success of the GRACE Commission and Georgia Pathways initiatives.

Support for Agriculture and Rural Georgia
The governor’s vision extended to Georgia’s agricultural sector, which he described as the backbone of the state’s economy. Kemp pledged disaster relief for farmers and foresters, aiming to strengthen rural Georgia and address challenges posed by recent natural disasters.

Commitment to Pro-Business Policies
Governor Kemp’s remarks at both the Eggs and Issues Breakfast and the State of the State address underscored his commitment to maintaining Georgia’s status as a leader in economic opportunity. By prioritizing lawsuit reform, accelerating tax relief, and addressing critical safety and infrastructure needs, the governor has set the stage for a legislative session that seeks to ensure continued economic vitality for businesses across the state.

As the session progresses, collaboration between state leaders and the business community will be essential in turning these priorities into actionable policies that benefit all Georgians.