Legislative Week 2 Update

The second week of the 2026 Georgia Legislative Session was officially “Budget Week” under the Gold Dome. Lawmakers in both the House and Senate focused heavily on reviewing the Amended Fiscal Year (AFY) 2026 budget and setting priorities that address affordability, infrastructure, education, and public safety.

With 2026 being an election year, there is strong attention on fiscal responsibility, tax relief, and ensuring state spending delivers measurable value to Georgia families, including those in House District 143.

Here’s what you need to know.

Governor Kemp proposed a one-time $1 billion tax rebate, which would provide:

This rebate is designed to help offset rising costs of groceries, utilities, housing, and transportation.

In addition, the Governor proposed a $2,000 pay supplement for:

The goal is to help retain skilled workers and address ongoing cost-of-living pressures.

At the same time, lawmakers continue discussions on reducing Georgia’s flat income tax rate from 5.19% to 4.99%, continuing a multi-year effort to lower taxes responsibly.

Why this matters locally: Many households in Macon-Bibb and Houston Counties include educators, public servants, and working families who would benefit directly from both tax relief and salary supplements.

The proposed AFY 2026 budget includes approximately $1.3 billion in cash funding for long-term infrastructure projects.

These investments include:

Funding projects with surplus dollars instead of long-term debt is a key part of the state’s fiscal strategy.

Why this matters locally: Strong infrastructure supports economic growth in Middle Georgia, reduces commute times, and keeps local businesses competitive.

Education funding was also front and center in Week 2 discussions.

Proposed additions include:

Why this matters locally: Expanding access to higher education and workforce training creates long-term economic mobility for students in our district.

The budget proposal includes increased funding for:

Georgia has made significant strides in strengthening mental health services in recent years, and lawmakers are reviewing how to sustain and improve those systems.

Why this matters locally: Strong mental health infrastructure reduces strain on emergency rooms, law enforcement, and families and improves overall community safety.

Throughout the week, House and Senate committees held detailed hearings with state agencies to review spending, examine program performance, and ensure taxpayer dollars are used responsibly.

Budget Week is one of the most important parts of the legislative session. It sets the tone for the remainder of the year and reflects how Georgia balances growth with fiscal discipline.

Because 2026 is an election year, discussions are unfolding in a politically charged environment. Issues such as:

are being debated alongside the budget.

Even in an election year, the primary responsibility of the General Assembly remains clear: pass a balanced budget and ensure Georgia families are protected from rising costs while maintaining long-term financial stability.

Among the serious policy debates, lawmakers also considered a proposal to designate lemon pepper wings as Georgia’s official state chicken wing flavor. A reminder that the legislature handles both major fiscal policy and uniquely Georgia traditions.

For residents of Macon-Bibb and Houston Counties, Week 2 signals:

As the session continues, we will monitor how these proposals evolve and advocate for solutions that strengthen our local economy, support working families, and maintain responsible government spending.

If you have questions about legislation or need assistance navigating state services, our office is here to serve you.

Together, we are working toward a stronger, more affordable Georgia for every family in House District 143.

Representative Anissa Jones remains committed to ensuring our community’s voice is heard and that state resources deliver meaningful results for Macon-Bibb and Houston Counties.