The 2026 Special Session Begins
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Special Session Begins: What This Week Means for Georgia
This week, the Georgia House of Representatives returned to the Capitol for the start of the 2026 Special Session. While special sessions are often narrow in scope, the issues before the General Assembly this week are significant for every Georgian: fair representation, election administration, local tax relief, and the cost of living.
The House officially convened on Wednesday, June 17, at 2:00 p.m. The session was called by Governor Brian Kemp for several specific purposes, including redistricting matters connected to the United States Supreme Court’s decision in Louisiana v. Callais, election law implementation issues related to SB 189, local legislation tied to homestead exemptions, and ratification of the Governor’s temporary suspension of motor fuel and diesel fuel taxes.
For the people of House District 143, this session is a reminder that what happens under the Gold Dome does not stay in Atlanta. These decisions shape representation, household budgets, local government flexibility, and public trust in the democratic process..
This Week’s Legislative Highlights
The 2026 Special Session Officially Convened
The House opened the Special Session on Wednesday, June 17. Procedural resolutions were adopted to formally notify the Senate and the Governor that the House had convened. While this first day was largely organizational, it set the stage for policy debates that may affect the 2028 election cycle, local tax structures, and election administration across Georgia.Redistricting Is Back on the Table
One of the central reasons for the Special Session is to address district lines in light of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Louisiana v. Callais. Any redistricting discussion carries serious implications for representation, especially for communities that have historically had to fight for fair political voice and equal access to power.Election Administration Issues Move Into Focus
The Governor’s proclamation also directed lawmakers to address issues created by the July 1, 2026, effective date of changes enacted through SB 189. Election administration may sound procedural, but these rules directly affect voters, local election officials, and the confidence citizens have in the voting process..Gas Tax Suspension Ratification Advances
On Thursday, June 18, the House Ways & Means Committee passed HR 3EX, a resolution ratifying the Governor’s executive order suspending motor fuel and diesel fuel taxes from May 20 through June 2. On Saturday, June 20, the House adopted HR 3EX by a vote of 161–0. For families watching every dollar at the pump, fuel tax relief remains part of the broader conversation about affordability.Local Homestead Exemption Bills Face Setbacks
On Saturday, the House considered a series of local bills related to homestead exemptions funded through a one-percent Local Homestead Option Sales Tax. These bills were intended to provide property tax relief in various cities and counties. Many of these local measures failed on the floor by votes of 95–67, though notices of intent to reconsider were served, meaning the issue may return for additional action.
View from the Ground: Affordability, Fairness, and Representation
For our community, this Special Session should be viewed through three lenses: affordability, fairness, and representation.
First, affordability continues to be one of the most urgent issues facing families. Whether we are talking about fuel prices, property taxes, housing costs, insurance, childcare, or healthcare, working families need relief that is practical and real. Measures like fuel tax suspension and homestead exemptions may seem technical, but they connect directly to household budgets.
Second, fairness in representation matters. District lines influence whose voices are heard, whose neighborhoods are prioritized, and whose concerns make it into the rooms where decisions are made. Redistricting is not just about maps. It is about people, communities, and power.
Third, election rules must be clear, fair, and workable. Voters should have confidence that their voices count, and local election officials should have the tools and guidance they need to administer elections effectively.
As your representative, my focus remains on protecting the interests of Middle Georgia families, strengthening our communities, and ensuring that the people of District 143 have a strong voice in every conversation that affects our future.
What’s Next
The House is scheduled to reconvene for its 4th Legislative Day on Monday, June 22, at 2:00 p.m.
Key items to watch include:
Continued discussion around redistricting and representation
Possible reconsideration of local homestead exemption bills
Election administration issues connected to SB 189
Further action on Special Session priorities outlined in the Governor’s proclamation
We will continue to monitor developments and keep District 143 informed.
Community Call to Action
Stay engaged. Stay informed. Stay connected.
If you live in House District 143, we want to hear from you. Your stories, concerns, and priorities help shape the work we do at the Capitol.
Reply to this newsletter with the issue that matters most to you right now:
Property taxes, healthcare, housing, education, election access, transportation, or another concern facing your family or neighborhood.
Question of the Week
What does affordability mean for your household right now?
Is it lower property taxes? Lower gas prices? More affordable housing? Lower healthcare costs? Better wages? We want to know what relief would make the biggest difference for you and your family.
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