Peach Tree Times

With the 2025 Legislative Session at its midpoint, Georgia lawmakers have made progress on several key legislative priorities. Senator Larry Walker, III (R–Perry) highlighted significant developments in lawsuit reform and other areas.

Senate Bill 68 aims to address the costly legal environment affecting small businesses, healthcare providers, and consumers. "These commonsense reforms will help stabilize insurance costs, prevent frivolous litigation and ensure that businesses—especially small, family-owned operations—can operate without the constant threat of excessive verdicts," Walker stated. The bill has passed in the Senate and is now headed to the House.

In response to Hurricane Helene's impact on timberland owners in South Georgia, SB 52 was passed. Known as the “Timberlands Recovery, Exemption, and Earnings Stability (TREES) Act,” it provides tax relief for those affected by the storm's $1.3 billion damage to standing timber. Sponsored by Sen. Russ Goodman (R–Cogdell), this legislation seeks to support recovery efforts within Georgia’s forestry industry.

The Senate also approved SB 89, which expands Georgia’s Child Tax Credit for families with young children. "This legislation will provide real relief for Georgia families and help grow our state’s economy," said Walker. The bill increases state tax credits for childcare expenses and introduces a new credit for families with children under seven.

Additionally, Walker introduced SB 125 to streamline certification processes for professional engineers in Georgia. The proposed changes aim to allow engineers quicker entry into the workforce by altering experience and examination requirements.

Walker expressed his appreciation for Future Farmers of America (FFA) Day celebrations held earlier this week. He emphasized FFA's role in preparing youth for careers in agriculture: "The future of farming depends on our youth."

Senator Walker continues to represent the 20th Senate District while serving as Secretary of the Majority Caucus and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Insurance and Labor.