The 2025-26 biennium kicked off this week as the House and Senate convened for legislative days 1-5. The General Assembly welcomed 22 new Members. Although Democrats picked up a couple seats, Republicans still control both chambers.
State House (100 Republicans, 80 Democrats)
State Senate (33 Republicans, 23 Democrats)
While Republicans retained their current leadership posts, Democrats elected new leaders with the retirements of Minority Leaders James Beverly and Gloria Butler. State Rep. Carolyn Hugley now leads the minority caucus in the House, and State Sen. Harold Jones II takes up the Minority Leader position in the Senate.
The Gwinnett Legislative Delegation also has new additions:
Majority Caucus Chairman Bruce Williamson
State Rep. Arlene Beckles (newly elected)
State Rep. Sandy Donatucci (newly elected)
State Senator Randal Mangham (newly elected)
On Thursday, Governor Brian Kemp gave his State of the State address to the joint session where he focused on a push for meaningful tort reform this year. He also proposed reducing the state income tax rate from 5.39% to 5.19%. Other priorities include school safety measures and workforce initiatives.
Lawmakers will not meet next week as appropriation hearings are held to review Fiscal Year 2026 Budget and the Amended Fiscal Year 2025 Budget.