The Georgia Senate has continued its work in the 2026 Legislative Session, focusing on budget reviews and policy initiatives aimed at supporting residents across the state. Despite winter weather challenges, legislative activity remained steady under the Gold Dome.
In recent weeks, senators have examined Governor Brian Kemp’s proposals for both the Amended Fiscal Year 2026 and Fiscal Year 2027 budgets. Lawmakers noted that Georgia’s stable financial position is a result of conservative budgeting practices over several years. This approach has enabled investments while maintaining respect for taxpayers.
Senator Mike Hodges, a member of the Senate Committee on Finance, highlighted efforts to provide tax relief: “Governor Kemp’s proposed rebate plan returns more than $1 billion in income taxes to hardworking Georgians. Under this plan, single filers would receive a one-time $250 rebate, while joint filers would receive up to $500 back in their pockets. Families don’t have the luxury of waiting on the government while bills pile up, and this refund would deliver immediate relief by giving Georgians the freedom to cover everyday costs.”
Hodges also mentioned ongoing collaboration with the Department of Banking on legislation intended to clarify regulations and terminology. Additional measures are being developed to address duplicate payments in workers’ compensation as part of efforts to reduce administrative burdens.
According to Hodges, “Senate Republicans are focused on policies that strengthen families, grow our economy, and keep Georgia a great place to live, work and raise a family. That means lowering costs, protecting homeowners, supporting educators, and ensuring government lives within its means, just like Georgia families do every day.”
This week saw final passage of Senate Bill 148 (SB 148), which expands flexibility for educators by promoting hands-on learning opportunities and updating teacher leave policies. “This legislation recognizes that teachers are the backbone of our schools and gives them the support and flexibility they need to help students succeed. I was proud to support SB 148 and grateful to my Senate colleagues for working together to get this bill across the finish line,” said Hodges.
Progress was also made on property tax reform through Senate Bill 382 (SB 382). The bill proposes a statewide base-year homestead exemption for all local governments and aims to standardize referendum processes related to local sales taxes. According to Hodges: “For too long, homeowners have faced unrelenting property tax increases as some local governments opted out of existing protections. This bill restores fairness and puts homeowners first by ensuring everyone plays by the same rules.” SB 382 will next be considered by the Senate Rules Committee.
Legislative priorities outlined by Republican senators include keeping property taxes low, maintaining energy reliability, supporting workforce development initiatives, and ensuring low overall taxation rates.
In addition to legislative work inside the Capitol, Hodges met with members of organizations such as the Brunswick-Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce—which promotes business growth—and discussed data needs with representatives from the Georgia Board of Health Care Workforce regarding healthcare provider distribution across regions.
Senator John F. Kennedy has played an active role in Georgia’s legislative process representing District 18 since his swearing-in on January 12, 2015 (official website). He holds leadership positions including President Pro Tempore and chairmanships such as Administrative Affairs Committee (official website). Kennedy participates in several committees—Ethics; Finance; Health & Human Services; Rules—and maintains an office at Atlanta’s Capitol (official website). His background includes practicing law after studying at Mercer University (official website).
Hodges concluded his update stating appreciation for constituent feedback: “As always, I appreciate hearing from you and value your input as the legislative session continues. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions, concerns or ideas.”