List of Laws Effective Dates

2023 SESSION OF THE GEORGIA GENERAL ASSEMBLY
LEGISLATION PASSED
This document is a comprehensive report of legislation passed by the 2023 Georgia General Assembly, with
the exception of local legislation and resolutions. Each bill is indexed by the assigned standing Senate
committee through which it was favorably reported with a brief synopsis containing the primary sponsors
and effective date. If you require additional information on any bill, please contact the Senate Research Office
to request the full summary and analysis.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Agriculture and Consumer Affairs ........................................................................................................... 1
Appropriations .............................................................................................................................................. 2
Banking and Financial Institutions ......................................................................................................... 3
Children and Families ................................................................................................................................. 3
Economic Development and Tourism ...................................................................................................... 6
Education and Youth ................................................................................................................................... 6
Ethics .............................................................................................................................................................. 9
Finance ......................................................................................................................................................... 10
Government Oversight .............................................................................................................................. 12
Health and Human Services ..................................................................................................................... 13
Higher Education ....................................................................................................................................... 17
Insurance and Labor.................................................................................................................................. 19
Judiciary ...................................................................................................................................................... 21
Natural Resources and the Environment .............................................................................................. 26
Public Safety................................................................................................................................................ 27
Regulated Industries and Utilities ......................................................................................................... 30
Retirement ................................................................................................................................................... 31
Rules .............................................................................................................................................................. 32
Science and Technology ............................................................................................................................ 32
State and Local Government Operations .............................................................................................. 33
State Institutions and Property .............................................................................................................. 34
Transportation ............................................................................................................................................ 34
Veterans, Military, and Homeland Security ......................................................................................... 35
Prepared by the Senate Research Office | 2023 | Page 1 of 36

AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS
Senate Bill 103

Updating the Policies and Procedures of the Unclaimed Property Department
Sponsors: Senator Goodman of the 8th and Representative Smith of the 133rd
Effective Date: July 1, 2024
This legislation creates new scanning and record retention requirements for the Department of Revenue Unclaimed
Property Division, lists when the Department may deduct expenses for administering unclaimed property, and sets
new standards for appeals of decisions by the Division. Further, this bill sets new procedural and professional
requirements for third-party agents filing unclaimed property claims and sets new limits for what information the
Division may share with registered agents completing the claims process.
House Bill 132

Authorization of the Use of Ungraded Lumber in the Construction of Certain Structures
Sponsors: Representative Jenkins of the 136th and Senator L. Anderson of the 24th
This legislation requires the Department of Community Affairs to amend the state minimum standards code to allow
the use of ungraded lumber in the construction or repair of any accessory structure not containing habitable space on
property zoned or primarily used for residential or agricultural purposes.
House Bill 528

Georgia Online Automatic Renewal Transparency Act
Sponsors: Representative Gaines of the 120th and Senator Parent of the 42nd
Effective Date: January 1, 2024
This legislation regulates businesses that offer paid subscriptions or purchasing agreements online that are subject
to automatic renewal by prohibiting the practice of charging consumers for ongoing shipments of a product or
deliveries of services without the consumer’s consent and without providing clear and conspicuous online methods of
cancellation. Further, this legislation prohibits third-party delivery services from taking orders for or arranging for
the pickup, transportation, or delivery of ready to eat food from a food service establishment without prior written
consent; and from using a food service establishment’s name, likeness, registered trademark, or intellectual property
in a manner that implies association, sponsorship, or endorsement without prior written consent.
House Bill 545

Agricultural Commodity Commission for Citrus Fruits
Sponsors: Representative Cannon of the 172nd and Senator S. Watson of the 11th
This legislation creates an Agricultural Commodity Commission for Citrus Fruits. The Commission must be
established on July 1, 2023. Prior to December 31, 2026, and each three years thereafter, balloting must be conducted
to determine whether existing commissions listed in current law will continue to exist and operate. This bill also
defines producer, in relation to the Agricultural Commodity Commission for Citrus Fruits, as a producer that owns
and operates at least five acres of citrus fruit bearing trees.
APPROPRIATIONS
House Bill 18
Supplemental Appropriations for State Fiscal Year July 1, 2022 - June 30, 2023
Sponsors: Speaker Burns of the 159th and Senator Tillery of the 19th
Effective Date: March 10, 2023; Act 1
Please contact the Senate Budget and Evaluation Office for details.
House Bill 19
General Appropriations for State Fiscal Year July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024
Sponsors: Speaker Burns of the 159th and Senator Tillery of the 19th
Effective Date: May 5, 2023; Act 351
Please contact the Senate Budget and Evaluation Office for details.

House Bill 611
Disposition of State Funds Derived from Legal Settlements
Sponsors: Representative Burchett of the 176th and Senator Tillery of the 19th
Governor vetoed May 5, 2023
This bill provides that all funds derived from legal judgments awarded or settlements entered into by the State of
Georgia on or after June 1, 2023, must be held by the state treasury until appropriated by the General Assembly. It
further provides that such appropriations must be made in accordance with the terms or conditions of the judgment
or settlement, so long as such terms or conditions do not conflict with state or federal law.
BANKING AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS
Senate Bill 84
Providing Financial Protections for Elder and Disabled Adults
Sponsors: Senator Hufstetler of the 52nd and Representative Barrett of the 24th
This bill amends the Georgia Uniform Securities Act of 2008 and creates a reporting system that requires certain
individuals like broker-dealers and investment advisors to report financial exploitation of certain elders and disabled
individuals. The bill provides limited authority for broker-dealers or investment advisors to delay a disbursement
form or transaction in connection with the account of an eligible adult if there is reasonable cause to believe that
financial exploitation is occurring.
Senate Bill 90
Commercial Financing Transaction Disclosures
Sponsors: Senator Dixon of the 45th and Representative Crowe of the 118th
This bill requires providers to disclose information in connection with a commercial financial transaction. The bill also
provides for certain limitations for brokers, and allows for the Attorney General to enforce compliance with the
provisions. Further, this bill requires notices for certain unsolicited written inquiries or mailings. The bill sets forth
limitations on brokerage engagements and options to enter into a brokerage engagement.
House Bill 55
Title 7 Code Revision
Sponsors: Representative Williamson of the 112th and Senator Kennedy of the 18th
This bill makes numerous changes throughout Title 7 concerning banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions.
The bill creates a new article regarding foreign banks and their regulation, in Georgia.
CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
Senate Bill 45
A.J.’s Law, Seizure Action Plans for Students
Sponsors: Senator Jason Anavitarte of the 31st and Representative Dempsey of the 13th
This bill provides for the care of students being treated for epilepsy or a seizure disorder. Under this bill, the parent(s)
or guardian(s) of a student being treated for epilepsy or a seizure disorder may work with the student’s physician to
develop a seizure action plan for incidents that may occur when the student is at school or a school related function.
This bill provides the required content of such seizure action plans and for their submission, review, and
implementation. Additionally, this bill requires a school nurse or trained seizure action plan personnel be present and
available to render services to a student with a seizure action plan on campus or other location where the student is
participating in a school related function. This bill further provides that if a school nurse or trained seizure action
plan personnel are unavailable, other school personnel are authorized to commence emergency procedures, including
contacting 911. This bill requires the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) to develop training guidelines and
model seizure action plans for use by local school systems and provides for the training of designated school personnel.

Senate Bill 107
Izzy’s Law; Aquatic Safety Plans for Private Swim Instructors
Sponsor: Senator Burns of the 23rd and Representative Hilton of the 48th
This bill creates a new chapter in Title 31 to provide for the use and implementation of aquatic safety plans by private
swim instructors. This bill requires the Department of Public Health to develop a model aquatic safety plan for private
swim instructors and provide it for download from DPH’s website. This bill additionally provides minimum procedures,
requirements and standards for aquatic safety plans. Every private swimming lesson instructor must adopt an aquatic
safety plan by April 1, 2024.
Senate Bill 131

Notice Requirements for Permanent Guardianship Hearings
Sponsor: Senator Tillery of the 19th and Representative Ballinger of the 23rd
This bill revises parties entitled to notice of a petition for permanent guardianship such that summons must be issued
to the child’s legal mother, legal father, biological father, legal custodian, attorney and guardian ad litem, and any
other parties necessary to the proceeding. Additionally, this bill provides for service of summons for permanent
guardianship petitions and notification by publication for persons who cannot be found. This bill further requires
objections to the petition be filed within ten days of personal service or of the date of the second publication of the
notice, and within 14 days of the mailing of notice. This bill further provides that a biological father will lose his right
to object to the petition for permanent guardianship if he fails to object to the guardianship within fourteen days of
the notice and he fails to file a petition for legitimation within 30 days of the hearing on the objection.
This bill also amends Code Section 19-7-1 regarding parental power over the proceeds of such child’s labor, to provide
that such parental power is lost by a parent if such parent is convicted for the murder or voluntary manslaughter of
the other parent of such child. Additionally, this bill provides that in the case of a surviving parent being criminally
indicted for the offense of murder or voluntary manslaughter of the other parent, that the court can use its discretion
in determining custody of such child.
Senate Bill 133

Creating a Uniform Process for DFCS to Assume Custody of Children as a Result of CHINS or
Delinquency Disposition Orders
Sponsor: Senator Strickland of the 17th and Representative Leverett of the 123rd
This bill adds two new Code sections to provide for a uniform process for DFCS to assume custody of children as a
result of a Child in Need of Services (CHINS) or delinquency disposition order on a nonemergency basis or in the
absence of exceptional circumstances based on evidence adduced at a disposition hearing. Such new Code sections
provide that, prior to placing a child who has been adjudicated a child in need of services or a child who is adjudicated
to have committed a delinquent act into the custody of DFCS, the court must comply with the legal requirements of
dependency proceedings, and must make certain considerations on the record. This bill additionally requires that
when a child is taken into DFCS custody as part of a CHINS or delinquency disposition, Department of Juvenile
Justice must make a report to the to the statewide child protective services Intake Communications Center and notify
DFCS that such report has been made. This bill permits DFCS to be present at a disposition hearing when a court is
considering ordering a child into DFCS custody pursuant to a CHINS or delinquency disposition order. This bill also
requires all parties to a CHINS or delinquency case provide DFCS with the child’s and their parent’s medical,
educational, and psychological assessments and reports and permits the court to order such documents be provided to
DFCS.
Senate Bill 134

Presuming Competency of Child Witness and Admitting Medical Reports in Narrative Form
Sponsor: Senator Cowsert of the 46th and Representative Camp of the 135th
In dependency proceedings and in all proceedings in which a child was a victim of or a witness to a crime, the child is
competent to testify, regardless of whether they understand the oath. This bill extends this presumption of a child’s
competency to testify to include all proceedings involving a termination of parental rights under Article 4 of Chapter
11 of Title 15.
This bill extends the hearsay exception for narrative medical reports to (1) dependency adjudications involving injury
and disease, and (2) termination of parental rights hearings involving injury or disease. For dependency adjudications,

this bill requires the adverse party be provided notice at least five days prior to the adjudication hearing; the adverse
party has three days from being provided with the report to object to the admissibility of any portion of the report,
other than on the ground that it is hearsay. For termination of parental rights hearings, the adverse party must be
provided with notice at least 15 days before the adjudication hearing and the adverse party may object within seven
days to the admissibility of any portion of the report, other than on the ground that it is hearsay. This bill provides
that all other provisions provided for under current law concerning medical reports in narrative form will apply to
juvenile dependency cases and parental rights hearings.
Senate Bill 135

Genetic Testing Standards and Evidence Authentication
Sponsor: Senator Kirkpatrick of the 32nd and Representative Ballinger of the 23rd
This bill revises requirements for genetic tests for the determination of paternity to require that genetic testing must
be of a type reasonably relied upon by experts in the field of genetic testing. Additionally, this bill provides that the
results of genetic testing ordered by the court of record and signed under penalty of perjury is self-authenticating and
is admissible in any civil action, if documentation meets certain requirements.
Senate Bill 216

Respite Care for Children in Foster Care
Sponsors: Senator Brass of the 28th and Representative Ballinger of the 23rd
This bill amends the Code Section providing for short-term babysitting of foster youth to provide instead for respite
care for foster youth. Respite care, as the term is used in this bill, means occasional short-term relief for a foster parent
by a person or entity. This bill also amends the definition of ‘short-term’ to provide that it means up to 72 consecutive
hours or for such longer periods of time under such circumstances as may be delineated by the department pursuant
to regulations and rules. Accordingly, a foster parent may arrange for respite care of a child in foster care.
House Bill 76
Revising Licensure Qualifications for Marriage and Family Therapists; Repealing GORRC, Providing for
Jurisdiction over Bare Knuckle Boxing Matches, and Providing for Vacancies of Governor Appointments
Sponsor: Senator Brass of the 28th and Representative A. Powell of the 33rd
This bill repeals Chapter 1A of Title 43, relating to the Georgia Occupational Regulation Review Law (GORRC).
This bill additionally amends Chapter 4B of Title 43, which provides for the Georgia Athletic and Entertainment
Commission (“Commission”), to define “bare knuckle boxing match” and provide the Commission with jurisdiction
over such matches.
This bill also revises the licensure requirements for associate marriage and family therapists and for marriage and
family therapists. Revisions include changes in the number of required experience hours and education requirements.
This bill also amends the statute regarding vacation of offices in the state so as to provide that any Governor appointed
seat of an executive branch board, commission, or council, must be filled by appointment of the Governor as provided
by law when the seat becomes vacant or when it is declared vacant by the Governor as proscribed by law.
House Bill 129

Extends TANF Benefits to Pregnant Women and Repeals TANF Child Cap
Sponsor: Representative Hong of the 103rd and Senator Hodges of the 3rd
This bill revises the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Act which governs the Georgia TANF Program. Under
current law, only families with one or more minor children are eligible for assistance provided by TANF. This bill
amends the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Act to provide eligibility for pregnant women to receive TANF
assistance. This bill additionally amends the TANF Act to eliminate the TANF child cap by repealing Code Section
49-4-186, which eliminated incremental benefits under TANF for families who have an additional child born during
TANF eligibility period.

House Bill 460
Revising Right to Attorney in Dependency and Legitimation Proceedings
Sponsor: Representative Ballinger of the 23rd and Senator Brass of the 28th
This bill amends Code Section 15-11-103, which guarantees the right to counsel for all parties in dependency
proceedings by striking the provision that all parties have a right to an attorney in dependency cases and instead
providing that any custodian or guardian subject to a sworn complaint or affidavit and any respondent to a dependency
proceeding has a right to an attorney. This bill additionally provides that sworn complaints or affidavits are only to
be filed in situations where a child was taken into custody under exceptional circumstances. This bill also guarantees
dependent children who are represented by court appointed counsel be represented by such counsel in legitimation
matters in which such child is the subject. Additionally, this bill provides for appointed counsel for child in temporary
guardianship proceedings that are being transferred from probate court to juvenile court. This bill additionally
provides that a child receiving extended care youth services from DFCS is entitled to appointed counsel at all stages
of dependency proceedings. This bill amends the statute regarding criteria for receiving such services, development of
transition plan, and termination of such services to provide that the trial court may appoint an attorney for a child
with the child’s consent. Additionally, it provides a child may obtain their own attorney or waive the right to an
attorney.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM
Senate Bill 55
Georgia Lemonade Stand Act
Sponsors: Senator Parent of the 42nd and Representative Oliver of the 82nd
This bill provides for businesses solely operated by person(s) under 18 years of age to operate without license, permit,
or registration, provided they meet certain parameters.
Senate Bill 127

Excise Tax Procedure for Local Governments to Change Nonprofit Designation
Sponsors: Senator Hickman of the 4th and Representative Stephens of the 164th
Effective Date: April 25, 2023; Act 24
This bill provides that local governing authorities collecting more than $500,000 in hotel-motel taxes per year in the
last three years, must not alter or change its designated private sector non-profit organization without the agreement
of the destination marketing organization, or, if such agreement cannot be reached, without going before the Hotel
Motel Tax Performance Review Board.
House Bill 128

Providing for Representation of Minority Business Enterprises, Women Owned Businesses, and Veteran
Owned Businesses
Sponsors: Representative Hong of the 103rd and Senator Hodges of the 3rd
This bill provides for definitional and related changes to provide for representation of minority business enterprises,
women owned businesses, and veteran owned businesses in the area of procurement of state contracts for certain
construction related matters.
EDUCATION AND YOUTH
Senate Bill 204

Accreditation of Public Schools and Local School Systems
Sponsors: Senator Dolezal of the 27th and Representative Ehrhart of the 36th
This bill provides for the accreditation of public schools and local school systems by recognized accrediting agencies
and provides the requirements to be deemed a ‘recognized accrediting agency.’ The State Board of Education must
establish evaluation criteria, procedures, and other requirements that such recognized accrediting agencies must
satisfy. The evaluation criteria established by the State Board of Education must include: relevant evaluation criteria
used by regional and national accrediting agencies; rigorous measures of the quality of learning and teaching; and
rigorous measures of the financial efficiency of a public school or school system.

The provisions of this bill will not apply to any initial or renewal agreement between any accrediting agency and any
public school or school system entered into before July 1, 2023. Additionally, the bill provides that it may not be
construed to require the accreditation of any public school or school system in this state or prohibit any accrediting
agency from adopting additional evaluation criteria. This bill also provides that in the event of a dispute between an
accrediting agency and a public school or school system regarding the findings of the accrediting agency, the public
school or school system will have the right to an appeal.
Senate Bill 211

Establishing the Georgia Council on Literacy
Sponsors: Senator Hickman of the 4th and Representative Ballard of the 147th
This bill establishes the Georgia Council on Literacy (‘the Council’) for the purpose of conducting comprehensive
reviews of birth to postsecondary programs, the alignment of state support for such programs, and other issues related
to improving the literacy outcomes of Georgians from birth to adulthood. The Council is to be composed of 30 members,
including legislative and other non-legislative members, appointed by the Governor, the President of the Senate, and
the Speaker of the House of Representatives. The Council is attached to the Office of Student Achievement for
administrative purposes only. The Office of Student Achievement must provide staff support for the Council and must
use any funds specifically appropriated to it to support the Council.
Additionally, this bill requires the Office of Student Achievement to hire an individual to serve as Georgia Literacy
Coach to be responsible for coordinating staff support for the Council and for working in coordination with the literacy
efforts of the Alliance of Agency Heads. The “Alliance of Education Agency Heads” consists of: the Governor; the State
School Superintendent; the chairperson of the State Board of Education; the chancellor of the University System of
Georgia; the chairperson of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia; the commissioner of the
Technical College System of Georgia; the chairperson of the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia;
the executive secretary of the Professional Standards Commission, the chairperson of the Professional Standards
Commission; and the director of the Department of Early Care and Learning. This bill requires the Governor to direct
the alliance to work with members of the Council. The Council will be abolished on December 31, 2026.
House Bill 87
Nontraditional Special Schools Act
Sponsors: Representative Erwin of the 32nd and Senator Hatchett of the 50th
This bill requires each school that transitioned from operating as a system-collaborative state charter school to
operating as a state chartered special school to choose either to be established as a completion special school or to
cease operating as a state chartered special school and provides that no state chartered special school will be eligible
for the extension or renewal of its current charter with the State Board of Education. This bill provides for the
establishment of completion special schools and the requirements for such schools. Only ‘enrollment eligible students,’
as defined in the bill, are to be enrolled in a completion special school. However, each student enrolled as of June 30,
2023, in a school operating as a state chartered special school and having previously operated as a system-collaborative
state charter school will be eligible to be enrolled in a completion special school, and students in grades nine through
twelve are permitted to attend one or more classes in a completion special school’s credit recovery, dropout prevention,
or academic intervention program on a part-time basis, subject to certain conditions.
The State Board of Education may assign only one completion special school to operate in each of the seven attendance
zones provided in the bill. Upon being established as a completion special school, if such school is currently operating
one or more programs outside the attendance zone assigned to such school, then the State Board of Education is
authorized to permit such school to continue to operate such program(s) until the earlier of June 30, 2028, or the
establishment of a new completion special school that is assigned to the attendance zone where such program(s) is
operating. Additionally, the State Board of Education is also authorized to permit an enrollment eligible student to
attend a completion special school outside of their attendance zone if: (1) such student resides in a county that is
contiguous to but outside of the attendance zone of such school; and (2) such school is located closer to such student’s
residence than the completion special school in the attendance zone of the student’s residence. Finally, this bill
requires the Department of Education to provide for a comprehensive evaluation of each completion special school
regarding the success, impact, and needs, if any, of such school. The Department must report, in writing, the results
of the evaluation to the State Board of Education at least once every five years such school remains in operation.

House Bill 147
Safe Schools Act
Sponsors: Representative Wade of the 9th and Senator Hodges of the 3rd
Effective Date: July 1, 2023 (Signed April 13, 2023; Act 7)
This bill requires the Professional Standards Commission (PSC) create a school safety and anti-gang endorsement for
eligible certified professional personnel no later than December 31, 2023. The PSC must work in collaboration with
the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (Agency), the Department of Juvenile Justice,
and the Georgia Public Safety Training Center to develop the endorsement. A school safety and anti-gang endorsement
is available for certified eligible professional personnel who elect to complete a training program in multidisciplinary
best practices for promoting and preserving safe schools and for identifying and deterring youth gangs. In order to
receive the school safety and anti-gang endorsement, eligible certified professional personnel, employed in a public
school in Georgia, must complete a school safety and anti-gang training program approved by the PSC and provide
verification of such completion from an approved provider to the PSC.
This bill requires each public school submit its school safety plan to: the local emergency management agency; local
law enforcement; and the Agency for approval and requires an intruder alert drill be conducted by October 1 1of each
school year. The intruder alert drill must be based on guidance from the Agency, and each local school system or public
school must promptly report to the Agency the completion of such drill. All students must participate in the intruder
alert drill; provided, however, that the local school system or public school may provide an option for a student’s parent
or guardian to elect, in writing, that such student not participate.
House Bill 340

Daily Planning Periods for Teachers in Kindergarten through Grade Twelve
Sponsors: Representative Corbett of the 174th and Senator Anavitarte of the 31st
This bill provides that every teacher who is employed in grades kindergarten through twelve for a period of time of
more than one-half of the class periods of the regular school day must have a daily planning period in addition to their
lunch period. This planning period must be included in the number of hours worked, and no local board of education
may increase the number of hours to be worked by an employee as a result of the employee’s planning period. Local
units of administration, if necessary due to extreme economic conditions or an unforeseen and unavoidable shortage,
may require a teacher otherwise entitled to a planning period to supervise students during such planning period for
no more than one day in any school week except when necessary to ensure the safety of students and staff.
House Bill 402

Edna Mae McGovern Act
Sponsors: Representative Hilton of the 48th and Senator Still of the 48th
This bill requires each public school or local school system to annually provide information on the important role water
safety courses and swimming lessons play in saving lives. As used in this bill, ‘water safety education’ is education
intended to promote safety in, on, and around bodies of water and reduce the risk of injury or drowning. This
information: must be provided to the parents or guardians of each student enrolled in the school or school system
under 18 years of age and provided directly to students who are 18 years of age or older; may be in hard copy or
electronic format; and must include options, if available within the vicinity of the school or school system, for age
appropriate water safety education courses and swimming lessons that can result in a certificate indicating successful
completion, including courses and lessons offered for free or at a reduced price. This bill does not require public schools
or local school systems to: (1) provide water safety education courses or swimming lessons to students; or (2) excuse
students from all or part of any school day to attend water safety education courses or swimming lessons.
House Bill 538

Georgia Early Literacy Act
Sponsors: Representative Ballard of the 147th and Senator Hickman of the 4th
Effective Date: July 1, 2023 (Signed April 13, 2023; Act 9)
This bill requires teachers in all programs licensed or commissioned by the Department of Early Care and Learning
to receive training on developmentally appropriate evidence based literacy instruction and requires the Department
of Education to develop one or more training programs for kindergarten through third grade teachers on the science
of reading. The State Board of Education must approve high-quality instructional materials to be used for teaching
students in kindergarten through third grade to read, and the Board must create a list of approved universal reading

screeners that meet the criteria in this bill. The Department is required to provide a free universal reading screener
for use by local school systems.
Each public school and local school system must administer a universal reading screener to each student in
kindergarten through third grade. If a student exhibits a significant reading deficiency after a universal reading
screener, this bill requires that such student receive a tiered reading intervention plan. This bill also requires the
parent or guardian of any student in kindergarten through third grade who exhibits a significant reading deficiency
be notified in writing and provides requirements for the notice.
This bill also: requires the Department provide an annual report on the impacts of the implementation of the
provisions of the bill; requires each public school and local school system to provide instructional support for
kindergarten through third grade teachers; requires the Board adopt a formative reading assessment for students in
first and second grades; and requires the GACE or any other assessment required by the Commission for teacher
certification to be aligned with developmentally appropriate evidence based literacy instruction.
ETHICS
Senate Bill 129

Requires Employers to Allow Employees Time Off to Vote in Person on the Day or in Person in Advance
Sponsors: Senator Williams of the 25th and Representative Leverett of the 123rd
This bill requires employers to give employees the option to vote in advance in-person rather than voting in person on
the date of the primary or election. Additionally, the bill permits the State Election Board to appoint members of a
county board of elections or county board of elections and registration to the performance review board. The bill
requires specific language on an absentee ballot application sent to a voter by any person or non-governmental entity.
This bill extends the latest time by which an election superintendent must file a report publicly and with the Secretary
of State. Also, the bill allows local election superintendents the option of conducting risk limiting audits as an
alternative to the currently-required precertification tabulation audits.
Senate Bill 222

Bars Certain Local Governments and Elections Officials from Receiving Things of Value for Conducting
Elections
Sponsors: Senator Burns of the 23rd and Representative Gaines of the 120th
This bill bars certain local governments and elections officials from receiving grants or gifts for conducting elections
or in support of performing their duties from anyone except the State of Georgia or the federal government.
Specifically, this bill bars employees of the county, municipal government, state, and elections officials from receiving
anything of value from a person (including any individual, proprietorship, firm, partnership, joint venture, syndicate,
labor union, business, trust, company, association, committee, corporation, or any other organization of a group of
persons acting in concert, or any other nongovernmental third party entity) for the purpose of conducting primaries
or elections. This bar also includes elections superintendents, registrars, poll workers, and the agents and employees
of the same.
An employee of the county, municipal government, state, elections official, elections superintendent, registrar, or poll
worker who accepts something of value in violation of the bill’s terms may face felony charges. If convicted, the
individual would be punished with a prison sentence of one year or more and a fine of $10,000.00 or more. The
prohibitions of this bill do not apply to: the donation or use of locations for voting purposes, services provided by
individuals without remuneration, or goods that have a nominal value of less than $500.00.
Additionally, this bill provides that the State Elections Board (Board) must be a distinct budget unit and independent
state agency attached to the Secretary of State for administrative purposes only. The bill provides for the appointment
of an Executive Director of the Board and duties for the same and provides for other considerations regarding the
Board.

House Bill 572
Renames the Georgia Government Transparency and Campaign Finance Commission as the State
Ethics Commission
Sponsors: Representative Reeves of the 99th and Senator Williams of the 25th
This bill renames the Georgia Government Transparency and Campaign Finance Commission as the State Ethics
Commission, a former name of the commission. It provides that the commission may impose civil penalties against
county election superintendents, municipal clerks, or CEOs who willfully fail to properly transmit campaign disclosure
report copies. The bill also provides certain exemptions from filing campaign reports and provides exemptions for
retired judges and senior judges from filing financial disclosure affidavits.
FINANCE
Senate Bill 56
Tax Commissioner Deferred Compensation Plan
Sponsors: Senator Hufstetler of the 52nd and Representative Mitchell Scoggins of the 14th
Effective Date: Various. Signed May 2, 2023; Act 236
This bill provides for the administration of a deferred compensation plan offered as a state benefit for eligible county
tax commissioners. This bill also provides for Internal Revenue Code conformity and updates the Georgia Code to
incorporate certain changes in federal law into Georgia law. Current law provides a tax on every resident of this state
with respect to the Georgia taxable net income of the taxpayer. A tax is imposed upon every nonresident with respect
to such nonresident's Georgia taxable net income not otherwise exempted which is received by the taxpayer from
services performed, property owned, proceeds of any lottery prize awarded by the Georgia Lottery Corporation, or from
business carried on in this state. Current law provides for a revision of the rate of income tax for individuals to 4.99
percent over a six-year period. However, such changes in the rate of taxation will only occur if the following triggers
are met: (i) the Governor’s revenue estimate for the succeeding fiscal year is at least 3 percent above the Governor’s
revised revenue estimate for the present fiscal year; (ii) the prior fiscal year’s net revenue collection was higher than
each of the preceding five fiscal years’ net tax revenue collection; and (iii) the Revenue Shortfall Reserve, provided for
in Code Section 45-12-93, contains a sum that exceeds the amount of the decrease in state revenue projected to occur
as a result of the prospective reduction in the tax rates set to occur in the following year.
This bill revises look-back provisions in the above triggers to provide for a three-year look-back period rather than
five-years, such that the prior fiscal year’s net revenue collection must be higher than each of the preceding three
fiscal years’ net tax revenue collection. Current law provides for a schedule of standard deductions which each tax
payer is allowed as a personal exemption for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2024. This bill strikes this
schedule and instead provides that each taxpayer is allowed as a deduction in computing their Georgia taxable income
a personal exemption in the amount of $3,000.00 for each dependent of such taxpayer.
Under current law, in addition to the exemptions discussed above, an individual taxpayer may, for taxable years
beginning on or after January 1, 2024, deduct the sum of all itemized nonbusiness deductions used in computing such
taxpayer’s federal taxable income. This bill provides that, at the taxpayer’s election, they may alternatively choose to
take a standard deduction in the amount of $24,000.00 for married couples filing a joint return, or for single taxpayers,
head of household, or married taxpayers filing a separate return, $12,000.00.
This bill adds a new Code section which provides that for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2024, each
eligible itemizer is entitled to a credit in the amount of $300.00 per taxpayer. This tax credit claimed, must be deducted
from the taxpayer's individual income tax liability, if any, for the tax year in which it is properly claimed; provided,
however, that in no event can: (1) the total amount of the tax credit under this Code section for a taxable year exceed
such taxpayer's income tax liability; or (2) such credit amount be allowed to be carried forward to the taxpayer's
succeeding years' tax liability or applied against prior years' tax liability. This bill also updates the definition of ‘force
majeure,’ regarding tax credits for business enterprises planning a qualified project.
This bill also provides for a tax for the sale or purchase of certain digital products, goods, and codes.

Senate Bill 220
Georgia Farmland Conservation Act
Sponsors: Senator Goodman of the 8th and Representative Dickey of the 145th
This bill provides for the creation of the Georgia Farmland Conservation Fund. The bill further provides for the fund’s
administration and for the creation of the Georgia Farmland Advisory Council to advise and assist the Department of
Agriculture with administration and implementation of the program. Award grants from the program may include
payment: to qualified easement holders for the purchase of agricultural conservation easements on qualified farmland,
for advancing farmland conservation, and to support active farming and food production in Georgia; or for the costs of
acquisition related to the purchase of agricultural conservation easements approved by the program.
House Bill 31
Hazardous Waste Fee Dedication
Sponsors: Buckner of the 137th and Hufstetler of the 52nd
Dedicates certain hazardous waste fee proceeds to the Hazardous Waste Trust Fund.
House Bill 86
Tax Credit for Certain Property Used for Renovation of Certain Aquariums and Zoological Institutions
Sponsors: Representative Rhodes of the 124th and Senator Albers of the 56th
This bill provides a tax credit for the sale or use of tangible personal property used for or in the renovation or expansion
of certain aquariums and zoological institutions.
House Bill 95
Annual IRC Conformity
Sponsors: Representative Knight of the 134th and Senator Hickman of the 4th
This bill provides for the annual Internal Revenue Code conformity.
House Bill 138

Updates Population Bracket and Census Data for Certain Property Tax Exemption for Certain Leased
Property
Sponsors: Representative Crowe of the 118th and Senator Williams of the 25th
Current law provides a definition for homestead as it relates to property tax exemptions. Current law provides that
homesteads, in part, include the following qualification: in all counties having a population of 23,500-23,675, according
to the United States decennial census of 2010 or any future such census, where the person who is the applicant holds
real property subject to a written lease; the applicant has held the property subject to such a lease for not less than
three years prior to the year for which application is made; and the applicant is the owner of all improvements located
on the real property. This bill updates the requisite population range from 23,500-23,675 to 25,400-25,500. Further
the bill updates to the usage of the 2020 census instead of the 2010 census, to determine population.
House Bill 162

Tax Credit for Certain Taxpayers who Filed Returns for Both 2021 and 2022
Sponsors: Representative McDonald of the 26th and Senator Hodges of the 3rd
This bill creates a one-time tax credit for qualifying individual taxpayers who filed returns for both 2021 and 2022.
House Bill 230

Tax by Certain Consolidated Governments for Funding Coliseum Capital Outlay Projects
Sponsors: Representative Newton of the 127th and Senator Burns of the 23rd
This bill provides for a tax that may be imposed by certain consolidated governments for a limited period of time for
the purpose of funding coliseum capital outlay projects and project costs. The bill further provides for a referendum to
be held regarding the tax as well as requirements such as required ballot language. Additionally, the bill provides
administrative and relevant requirements regarding imposition of the tax.

House Bill 311
Emergency Management Director Disaster Assessment
Sponsors: Representative Smith of the 70th and Senator Brass of the 28th
This legislation provides an optional mechanism to grant temporary tax relief for buildings located in a disaster area
that has been destroyed or severely damaged as a result of a disaster. This bill requires each local emergency
management director to establish and maintain rules for purposes of this legislation. These rules must set forth the
conditions determining whether a building has incurred a degree of damage sufficient to qualify as major or destroyed.
House Bill 408

Revising Tax Exemption for Projects of Regional Significance
Sponsors: Representative Williamson of the 112th and Senator Hufstetler of the 52nd
Current law provides for a sales tax exemption for the period commencing January 1, 2012, until June 30, 2023, for
sales of tangible personal property used for and in the construction of a competitive project of regional significance.
This bill removes the June 30, 2023 sunset and replaces it with December 31, 2026. Further, current law provides
that said exemption applies to purchases made during the entire time of construction of the competitive project of
regional significance within the period commencing January 1, 2012 until June 30, 2023. This bill makes the same
change and replaces the June 30, 2023 date with December 31, 2026.
House Bill 412

Revises Tax Provisions Regarding Taxation of Partnerships
Sponsors: Representative Williamson of the 112th and Senator Albers of the 56th
This bill revises tax provisions regarding taxation of partnerships for partnerships making an election to pay income
taxes at the entity level.
House Bill 431

Revises Special Local Sales Tax Provision Regarding Purpose of Tax
Sponsors: Representative Drenner of the 85th and Senator Butler of the 55th
This bill removes provision regarding the implementation of special purpose local sales tax as it relates to the purpose
of such tax in counties that also levy and collect an equalized homestead option sales tax.
House Bill 482

Revises Definition of Taxpayer as It Relates to Establishing or Relocating Quality Jobs
Sponsors: Representative Sainz of the 180th and Senator Albers of the 56th
This bill expands the definition of ‘taxpayer’ as it relates to tax credits for establishing or relocating quality jobs.
House Resolution 66
Ratifying Governor Kemp’s Fuel and Diesel Tax Suspension
Sponsors: Representative Gambill of the 15th and Senator Hodges of the 3rd
This resolution ratifies Governor Kemp’s Executive Orders, suspending the collection of motor fuel and diesel fuel
taxes.
GOVERNMENT OVERSIGHT
Senate Bill 3
Reducing Barriers to State Employment Act of 2023
Sponsors: Senator Albers of the 56th and Representative Hilton of the 48th
This bill requires the Department of Administrative Services to assess the educational requirements necessary for
jobs in various entities and identify jobs where the requirements could be reduced. The Department is specifically
directed to reduce, where practicable, the number of jobs for which a four-year college degree is a required condition
of employment.

Senate Bill 23
Eliminating and Revising Various Boards and Commissions
Sponsors: Senator Kirkpatrick of the 32nd and Representative Hilton of the 48th
This bill eliminates and revises the scope of several state authorities, committees, councils, and commissions. The bill
also removes the authority of the Secretary of the Senate and the Clerk of the House of Representatives to post prefiled
bills via the GeorgiaNet Division of the Georgia Technical Authority.
The bill amends existing code regarding the Georgia Data Analytic Center (GDAC), which compiles data from across
the state government. The bill grants recourse to a state agency when the agency requests data from another state
agency and the request is denied. It empowers the director of the Office of Planning and Budget with the authority to
review data sharing disputes and to compel the production of the data from the disputing agency.
Senate Bill 215

Provides Law Enforcement Officers a Means to Remove their Personal Information Published on Certain
Government Websites
Sponsors: Senator Brass of the 28th and Representative Gaines of the 120th
This bill requires that local governments remove, upon a law enforcement officer’s written request, the residential
address or telephone number of the law enforcement officer or the officer’s spouse from the website of the local
government. Additionally, the bill requires that local governments provide a form for a law enforcement officer’s use
when requesting removal of their residential address or telephone number or that of their spouse. The form must be
provided on or before January 1, 2024 and must be made available on the local government’s website.
House Bill 193

Increases Threshold beneath Which a Public Works Project Is Not Subject to Contracting and Bidding
Requirements
Sponsors: Representative Anderson of the 10th and Senator S. Watson of the 11th
Currently, any public works project that can be performed for a cost of less than $100,000 is not subject to contracting
and bidding requirements. Otherwise, the governmental entity must publicly advertise a public works construction
project opportunity before entering into a public works construction contract. Additionally, current law provides
specific bidding requirements for these contracts. This bill extends the threshold beneath which a public works project
is not subject to contract and bidding requirements from $100,000 to $250,000. This bill also provides an exception to
competitive bidding/purchase requirements for rapid transit authorities.
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Senate Bill 1
Urges the East Point and South Fulton Hospital Authorities to Establish a New Hospital
Sponsors: Senator Dolezal of the 27th and Representative Jones of the 25th
This bill removes the automatic repealer provision on the prohibition of state and local governments from requiring
proof of COVID-19 vaccination for government services.
Senate Bill 46
Amends the Georgia HIV/Syphilis Pregnancy Screening Act of 2015’s Testing Requirements
Sponsors: Senator Hufstetler of the 52nd and Representative Cooper of the 45th
This bill amends when testing for HIV and syphilis must be performed on a pregnant woman. Under this legislation,
a physician or other healthcare provider who is providing prenatal care for a pregnant woman must test said pregnant
woman for HIV and syphilis at the first prenatal visit, any time during the 28th to 32nd week of gestation, and at
delivery. However, such a pregnant woman retains her ability to refuse such testing.
Senate Bill 47
Amends Certain Definitions in the Georgia Smoke-Free Air Act of 2005
Sponsors: Senator Hufstetler of the 52nd and Representative Cooper of the 45th

This bill expands the definition of smoking to any lighted tobacco product intended for inhalation. Additionally, the
term smoking is further expanded to include the use of any electronic smoking device that creates an aerosol, vapor,
or the use of any oral smoking device for the purpose of circumventing the prohibition of smoking under applicable
laws. This legislation also adds a definition to the term tobacco product which has the same meaning as defined under
relevant federal law.
Senate Bill 106

Healthy Babies Act
Sponsors: Senator Walker of the 20th and Representative Cooper of the 45th
This bill requires DPH to conduct a pilot program to provide home visiting in at-risk and underserved rural
communities during pregnancy and early childhood to improve birth outcomes; reduce preterm deliveries; and
decrease infant and maternal mortality. Additionally, DPH must submit a report on the implementation and
effectiveness of this pilot program. Further, DCH must submit a report on the provision of remote maternal health
clinical services.
Senate Bill 140

Prohibits Certain Procedures and Therapies for the Treatment of Gender Dysphoria in Minors
Sponsors: Senator Summers of the 13th and Representative Bonner of the 73rd
Effective Date: July 1, 2023 (Signed March 23, 2023; Act 4)
This bill prohibits certain surgical procedures and hormone therapies for the treatment of gender dysphoria in minors
from being performed in hospitals and other licensed healthcare facilities. Additionally, this legislation provides for
limited exceptions as determined by the Georgia Medical Composite Board. Further, this bill provides for sanctions
for noncompliance by hospitals and other licensed healthcare facilities. Under this bill, noncomplying physicians may
be held administratively accountable to the Board.
Senate Bill 164

Licensure of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses; Anesthesiologist Assistant Act; Amends the Georgia
Composite Medical Board
Sponsors: Senator Hufstetler of the 52nd and Representative Newton of the 127th
This legislation replaces the need for an authorization into a licensure for an advanced practice registered nurse.
Additionally, this bill establishes licensure requirements and a renewal process. This legislation further prohibits the
practice of advance nursing without a licensure. This bill requires that an anesthesiologist assistant be appointed in
an advisory capacity to the Georgia Composite Medical Board. Additionally, all persons that practice as
anesthesiologist assistants in Georgia requires to be licensed as such. This bill also establishes these licensure
requirements for anesthesiologist assistants. This legislation also defines the scope of practice for anesthesiologist
assistants and establishes criminal penalties for unauthorized practice as an anesthesiologist assistant without proper
licensure. This bill further allows the Board to impose sanctions on anesthesiologist assistants whose conduct is in
violation of applicable laws.
Senate Bill 168

Authorizes Chiropractic Practice Liens on Certain Causes of Action
Sponsors: Senator Williams of the 25th and Representative Leverett of the 123rd
This bill adds chiropractic practice as another group authorized to place a lien on a cause of action accruing to an
injured person for the costs of care and treatment of injuries arising out of said cause of action. This legislation also
requires a claim to be submitted to each health insurer of the injured person (as long as said person has health
insurance coverage) and said claim must be rejected before any lien or claim can be enforceable.
Senate Bill 197

Health Care Practitioners Truth and Transparency Act
Sponsors: Senator Hufstetler of the 52nd and Representative Newton of the 127th
This legislation prohibits deceptive or misleading terms or false representations by health care practitioners in
advertisements and representations. Additionally, this bill prohibits the misappropriation of medical or medical
specialty titles by health care practitioners in advertisements and representations. This legislation also establishes
certain requirements on advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants during interactions with
patients in clinical settings.

Senate Bill 223
Allows for the Reimbursement of Patient Costs Related to Participation in Cancer Clinical Trials
Sponsors: Senator B. Watson of the 1st and Representative Hawkins of the 27th
This bill requires all sponsors of cancer clinical trials to provide specific information (regarding reimbursement of
certain costs) to potential patient-subjects at the time of the informed consent process. Additionally, this legislation
requires the language used to inform such patient-subjects be submitted to the relevant federally designated
institutional review board. A program or entity must disclose the nature of the ancillary support and guidelines on
financial eligibility to the patient-subjects. Under this bill, any and all entities and individuals may offer financial
support to cover ancillary costs through their support of a reimbursement entity or program.
House Bill 85
Requires Coverage for Biomarker Testing by Health Benefit Policies and Medicaid
Sponsors: Representative Cooper of the 45th and Senator Kirkpatrick of the 32nd
Under this bill, all health benefit policies renewed or issued beginning on July 1, 2023, must include coverage for
biomarker testing as provided in this legislation. Additionally, DCH must provide Medicaid coverage for biomarker
testing if supported by medical and scientific evidence. This biomarker testing must be covered for the purposes of
diagnosis, treatment, appropriate management, or ongoing monitoring of an enrollee's disease or condition when the
testing is supported by medical and scientific evidence.
House Bill 203

Amends the Restrictions on the Sale and Dispensing of Contact Lenses
Sponsors: Representative Newton of the 127th and Senator Brass of the 28th
This bill amends who can write a prescription for contact lenses or spectacles from persons licensed and regulated
under applicable laws to prescribers (who are optometrists and ophthalmologists licensed in Georgia). Additionally,
this legislation expands when such a prescription may be written to include when an eye assessment is performed
under certain conditions. In order to use an assessment mechanism to conduct an eye assessment or to generate a
prescription, the prescriber must be licensed in good standing in Georgia and acting within their scope of practice.
Additionally, prescribers utilizing an eye assessment mechanism are held to the same standard of care as those in traditional
in-person clinical settings. Under this legislation, any person who dispenses, offers to dispense, or attempts to dispense
contact lenses or spectacles in violation of these laws or any applicable rules and regulations concerning the dispensing of
contact lenses or spectacles in Georgia must pay a civil penalty to the Office of the Attorney General in an amount not more
than $11,000.00 for each violation.
House Bill 309

Amends the Financial Stability Requirements for Applicants and Licensees of Personal Care Homes and
Assisted Living Communities
Sponsors: Representative Cooper of the 45th and Senator Kirkpatrick of the 32nd
This legislation requires that these financial stability requirements apply to licensees of personal care homes and
assisted living communities. Additionally, this bill adds another circumstance where an applicant or licensee is
required to provide a financial stability affidavit from a certified public accountant to include instances when there is
a change of ownership of the personal care home or the assisted living community. This legislation no longer requires
the certified public accountant affirm the applicant’s ability to operate as a going concern for the next two years. Under
this bill, DCH must also establish a mandatory financial stability affidavit form and must assess an applicant's or a
licensee's financial status, in its own discretion, based on such financial stability affidavit.
House Bill 332

Controlled Substances Schedule Update
Sponsors: Representative Parrish of the 158th and Senator B. Watson of the 1st
This legislation represents the annual update to the state’s drug schedules by adding and removing several drugs and
substances to the state drug schedules. Schedule I drugs, substances, or chemicals are drugs with no currently
accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. Schedule IV drugs, substances, or chemicals are drugs with a low
potential for abuse and low risk of dependence. Schedule V drugs, substances, or chemicals are drugs with lower
potential for abuse than Schedule IV and consist of preparations containing limited quantities of certain narcotics.
Drugs listed as Dangerous Drugs are those identified either in federal or state law as requiring a prescription.

House Bill 383
Safer Hospitals Act
Sponsors: Representative Reeves of the 99th and Senator B. Watson of the 1st
This bill authorizes (on the campus of a hospital) a hospital peace officer employed by such a hospital who is certified
and who is authorized by the governing body or authority of such hospital to have the same law enforcement powers
(including the power of arrest) as a law enforcement officer of the local government with police jurisdiction over such
hospital campus. In order to exercise law enforcement powers, the hospital peace officer must be certified by the
Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council (P.O.S.T.) as having met the qualifications and completed the
basic training requirements for a peace officer under the Georgia Peace Officers Standards and Training Act. This
legislation allows hospital security personnel who are P.O.S.T. certified to be authorized by a hospital to carry a
standard issue firearm or weapon. This bill provides enhanced penalties for the offense of aggravated assault and
aggravated battery for a person who commits the offense of aggravated assault or aggravated battery upon an
emergency health worker or healthcare worker while such worker is on a hospital campus to perform official duties
must, upon conviction thereof, be punished by imprisonment for 3-20 years.
House Bill 416

Authorizes Qualified Pharmacy Technicians to Administer Certain Vaccines
Sponsors: Representative Silcox of the 53rd and Senator Hatchett of the 50th
This bill allows qualified pharmacy technicians to administer certain vaccines under certain conditions. Additionally,
this legislation establishes specific requirements to be a qualified pharmacy technician. Under this bill, a pharmacist
who is a party to certain vaccine protocol agreements may delegate the administration of vaccines to qualified
pharmacy technicians.
House Bill 440

Authorize Public and Private Schools to Stock a Supply of Undesignated Ready-to-use Glucagon
Sponsors: Representative Stoner of the 40th and Senator Brass of the 28th
This bill would allow a licensed physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant to prescribe
undesignated ready-to-use glucagon in the name of a public or private school. Likewise, this legislation would allow a
pharmacist to dispense undesignated ready-to-use glucagon pursuant to such a prescription. This legislation allows a
school nurse or trained diabetes personnel to possess and administer glucagon under appropriate circumstances
established pursuant to a student’s diabetes medical management plan. Additionally, public and private schools are
authorized to acquire and stock a supply of glucagon.
House Bill 453

Repeals the Requirement that Every Ambulance Service Pay an Annual License Fee
Sponsors: Representative Hilton of the 48th and Senator Kirkpatrick of the 32nd
This legislation removes the requirement that every ambulance service pay an annual license fee. Additionally, the
annual reporting requirement imposed on DCH with regard to certain information relating to ambulance service
license fees is repealed.
House Bill 497

Authorizes the Use of Certified Medication Aides in Penal Institutions
Sponsors: Representative LaHood of the 175th and Senator Echols of the 49th
This bill allows a penal institution or private vendor providing medical services to those confined in a penal institution
to employ certified medication aides for the purpose of performing the technical aspects of administering certain
medications. Additionally, a certified medication aide who meets the criteria established under this legislation is
permitted to perform the certain tasks in a penal institution, in accordance with the written instructions of a
physician. The medication administered by a certified medication aid must be in unit or multidose packaging. Under
this legislation, the employer of such a certified medication aide must secure the services of a licensed pharmacist to
perform the certain duties as part of such an institution's peer review, medical review, and quality assurance
functions. This bill requires the employer of a certified medication aide to ensure that each certified medication aide
receives ongoing medication training as prescribed by DCH. Additionally, a registered professional nurse or licensed
pharmacist must conduct quarterly unannounced medication administration observations and report any issues to

the penal institution administrator. This legislation does not authorize certified medication aides employed by a penal
institution to administer any Schedule II controlled substance that is a narcotic.
This bill requires DCH to certify an applicant for certification as a certified nurse aide who meets the following
qualifications: has relevant professional or educational experience as determined by DCH; and has achieved a
minimum score, as established by DCH’s rules, on a certified nurse aide competency examination consisting of a
written portion and a skills-demonstration portion, as approved by DCH.
HIGHER EDUCATION
Senate Bill 86
Authorizes Dual Enrollment Students to Access HOPE Grant Funds for CTAE Courses in High-Demand
Fields
Sponsors: Senator Brass of the 28th and Representative Townsend of the 179th
This bill authorizes each student participating in Dual Enrollment, beginning July 1, 2023, to access HOPE grant
funds for eligible CTAE courses. Eligible CTAE course is defined as all career, technical, and agricultural education
courses which are aligned with the department’s Career Clusters and Pathways programs and which are included in
the eligible course list. This bill requires the Georgia Student Finance Commission, in collaboration with the Technical
College System of Georgia, collect and report various data. This data collection must begin on July 1, 2023 and
continue for three years. The Georgia Student Finance Commission to provide an interim report, no later than January
1 of each year and requires a final report no later than September 1, 2026.
This bill requires the Department of Education or any organization that receives Dual Enrollment funds to annually
report certain data to the Georgia Student Finance Commission. Further, this bill requires the Georgia Student
Finance Commission maintain and annually provide a report to the Governor and the General Assembly of data for
the three preceding school years. This report must, at a minimum, include the impact of the program on credential
attainment and cost savings resulting from the program.
Senate Bill 246

HOPE Inclusive Postsecondary Education (IPSE) Grants for Eligible Students with Intellectual
Disabilities and Student Loan Repayment for Faculty Members of Postsecondary Nursing Programs
Sponsors: Senator Hodges of the 3rd and Representative Gambill of the 15th
IPSE Grant Program
Subject to the amount appropriated by the General Assembly and other available funding, eligible students enrolled
in an authorized IPSE program on or before July 1, 2028: (1) will receive an IPSE grant in an amount equal to the
current academic year standard undergraduate tuition amount at each student’s respective qualified postsecondary
institution; and (2) may receive an additional IPSE grant in an amount not to exceed the fees charged for the current
academic year for each student’s respective IPSE program. To be eligible for an IPSE grant, a student must meet the
requirements of Code Section 20-3-519.1(a)(1), relating to residency requirements, Code Section 20-3-519.1(b), relating
to HOPE scholarship ineligibility; and meet enrollment standards by being admitted and enrolled in an authorized
IPSE program at a qualified postsecondary institution. The Georgia Student Finance Authority must establish rules
and regulations to implement the requirements of this bill. The bill provides the minimum requirements for such rules
and regulations governing each authorized IPSE program.
Student Loan Repayment for Faculty Members of Postsecondary Nursing Programs
This bill adds a new Code Section relating to the Georgia Board of Healthcare Workforce, authorizing the board to
approve the applications of eligible applicants submitted in accordance with rules and regulations governing the
student loan repayment application process. For the purposes of this bill, an ‘eligible applicant’ is someone who: (1) is
a legal resident of Georgia; (2) is a registered professional nurse duly licensed and authorized to practice in this state;
(3) holds a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing; and (4) is currently employed and has been employed for at least
one year as a faculty member of a nursing program at a postsecondary institution that is a unit of the University
System of Georgia an institution subject to Code Section 20-3-250.3(a)(10), or a unit of the Technical College System
of Georgia in a position that requires an advanced degree in professional nursing.

This bill authorizes the board to provide for the repayment of student loans held by recipients in consideration of the
recipient serving as a faculty member of a nursing program. Before being granted student loan repayment, each
recipient must enter into a student loan repayment agreement with the board agreeing to the terms and conditions
upon which repayment is granted. The bill also provides requirements that each student loan repayment agreement
pursuant to this bill must meet.
House Bill 163

Student Loan Repayment for GBI Medical Examiners
Sponsor: Representative McDonald of the 26th and Senator Hodges of the 3rd
This bill adds a new subpart to the Code Section relating to the Georgia Student Finance Authority, authorizing the
authority to approve the applications of eligible applicants submitted in accordance with rules and regulations
governing the student loan repayment application process. For the purposes of this bill, an “eligible applicant” is: (1)
someone who is a legal resident of this state as established by rules and regulations of the authority; (2) is a physician
duly licensed and authorized to practice medicine in this state; and (3) is currently employed as a full-time medical
examiner by the Division of Forensic Sciences of the GBI and has been so employed for at least one year.
The bill authorizes the authority to provide for the repayment of student loans held by a recipient in consideration of
the recipient performing services in the form of the practice of medicine as a full time medical examiner employed by
the Division of Forensic Sciences of the GBI. Before being granted student loan repayment, each recipient must enter
into a student loan repayment agreement with the authority agreeing to the terms and conditions upon which
repayment is granted. The bill also provides requirements that each student loan repayment agreement pursuant to
this bill must meet. Additionally, the bill notes that such student loan repayment is contingent upon the appropriation
of funds by the General Assembly in annual appropriations Acts of the General Assembly.
House Bill 249

Quick Start Special Training Program Tuition and Eligibility and Award Amounts Relating to Needs
Based Financial Aid
Sponsor: Representative Martin of the 49th and Senator Burns of the 23rd
Governor Vetoed May 5, 2023
This bill provides that, subject to appropriations by the General Assembly for such purposes, the training programs
(under Article 3 of Chapter 4 of Title 20, relating to the Industry Services Training Program) entered into on or before
June 30, 2025, by a qualified participant that relate to the operation of a commercial motor vehicle must be tuition
free. A ‘qualified participant’ is a veteran of the US armed forces who was honorably discharged as evidenced by a US
Department of Defense Form 214 or National Guard Bureau Form 22.
The Georgia Student Finance Commission, subject to appropriations, provides a needs based financial aid program to
provide grants to eligible students for undergraduate level postsecondary education at qualified institutions. This bill
amends the completion percentage of the credit requirement imposed on an eligible student by establishing different
requirements based on the duration of the program. For a four-year program, the eligible student must have completed
70 percent of the credit requirements toward the credential of his or her program of study. For a two-year program,
the eligible student must have completed 45 percent of the credit requirements toward the credential of his or her
program of study. This bill increases the maximum award amount per eligible student to $3,500 in total, provided
that no single payment exceeds $2,500 per eligible student.
House Bill 319

Abolishing the Georgia Higher Education Assistance Corporation
Sponsor: Representative Martin of the 49th and Senator Burns of the 23rd
Governor Vetoed April 4, 2023
This bill abolishes the Georgia Higher Education Assistance Corporation by repealing the entirety of Part 2 of Article
7 of Chapter 3 of Title 20, which provides the statutory framework for the Corporation. Any outstanding obligations
or liabilities of the Corporation are transferred to and vested in the Georgia Student Finance Authority. Additionally,
the right, title, interests in, and ownership of all assets of the Corporation are transferred to and vested in the Georgia
Student Finance Authority; provided, however, that such assets be used for educational purposes. This bill makes
conforming changes through the code by removing provisions relating to the Georgia Higher Education Assistance
Corporation in Titles 2, 7, 12, 20, 26, 33, 43, and 48. This bill also provides that no increase in the cost of tuition or

fees in any academic year of more than three percent from the preceding academic year by a unit of the university
system will become effective unless approved by a joint resolution of the General Assembly.
House Bill 607

Revising the Definition of Zell Miller Scholarship Scholar
Sponsor: Representative Pirkle of the 169th and Senator Burns of the 23rd
Under current law, a “Zell Miller Scholarship Scholar” is a student who has met the eligibility requirements to receive
a HOPE scholarship and, as an incoming freshman: (1) graduated from an eligible high school with a grade point
average of at least 3.7; and (2) received a score of at least 1,200 on the combined critical reading and math portions
on a single administration of the SAT administered prior to March 1, 2016, or on the total score on a single
administration of the SAT administered on or after March 1, 2016; or received an ACT composite scale score of at least
26. This bill revises the ACT composite scale score requirement. Under this legislation, a student must receive an
equivalent ACT composite scale score determined by the Georgia Student Finance Commission by January 1 each
year. The Georgia Student Finance Commission must use nationally recognized standards, such as the College Board
and ACT concordance tables, to make its score determination.
INSURANCE AND LABOR
Senate Bill 20
Consumer Access to Contracted Healthcare Act
Sponsors: Senator Kirkpatrick of the 32nd and Representative Hawkins of the 27th
Effective Date: Applies to all policies or contracts entered or renewed on and after January 1, 2024
This bill requires insurers that provide a network plan to contract with and maintain a network of participating
providers in a sufficient number and appropriate type, including primary care and specialty care, pharmacies, clinical
laboratories, and facilities, throughout a plan’s service area, as determined by the Insurance Commissioner
(Commissioner). Similarly, insurers that provide mental health and substance use disorder (MH/SUD) coverage must
contract with and maintain a network of participating providers that specialize in MH/SUD services in a sufficient
number and appropriate type throughout a plan’s service area. Additionally, an insurer is required to monitor on an
ongoing basis the ability, clinical capacity, and legal authority of its participating providers to provide all the
contracted covered benefits. This legislation requires the Commissioner to determine and assess network adequacy
and breadth of a network plan using appropriate qualitative and quantitative criteria. This bill adds annual reporting
requirements on insurers to the Commissioner regarding quantitative data necessary to demonstrate compliance. The
Commissioner is further authorized to take any action including, but not limited to, imposing monetary penalties;
imposing a compliance plan; ordering the insurer to develop a compliance plan; or ordering the insurer to reprocess
claims.
Senate Bill 27
Amends the Noncovered Eye Care Services Act
Sponsors: Senator Brass of the 28th and Representative Gambill of the 15th
Effective Date: Applies to all policies or contracts entered or renewed on and after July 1, 2023
This bill limits certain acts of insurers with regard to ophthalmologists and optometrists and eye care benefit plans.
This legislation prohibits insurers from requiring an ophthalmologist or optometrist to extend any discounts on
services that are not covered eye care services in order to receive increased payments, better reimbursements,
preferential treatment, or any other benefit.
Senate Bill 61
Removes Sunset Provision Relating to Immediate Family Sick Leave Requirements
Sponsors: Senator Strickland of the 17th and Representative Daniel of the 117th
This bill eliminates the automatic repealer on statutory leave requirements for the care of immediate family members.

Senate Bill 65
Authorizes the Insurance Commissioner to Create and Operate an Exchange
Sponsors: Senator B. Watson of the 1st and Representative Lumsden of the 12th
This legislation removes the prohibitions surrounding the creation and operation of an exchange for the Insurance
Commissioner. Additionally, this bill authorizes the Commissioner to create an advisory board or committee for
providing recommendations on an exchange.
Senate Bill 91
Delays the Dissolution of the Subsequent Injury Trust Fund
Sponsors: Senator Dixon of the 45th and Representative Gaines of the 120th
This bill extends the termination date for the Subsequent Injury Trust Fund to December 31, 2025.
Senate Bill 160

Employment Security Taxes and Assessments
Sponsors: Senator Still of the 48th and Representative Cameron of the 1st
This bill amends the unemployment compensation tax rate increase and various termination dates related to
variations from the standard rate of contributions. Additionally, this legislation authorizes the Labor Commissioner
to collect administrative assessments.
House Bill 221

Amends Review Process for Private Passenger Motor Vehicle Liability Coverage Providing the Minimum
Limits Offered by the Carrier
Sponsors: Representative Lumsden of the 12th and Senator Walker of the 20th
This bill amends the file and use process applied to all the other forms of optional auto insurance by changing when
such a filing becomes effective. This legislation delays the effective date to 60 days after such a filing. Additionally,
such a filing’s effective date can occur earlier if authorized by the Commissioner or have a later effective date as
specified by the insurer. This bill further clarifies that any insurer is authorized to seek prior approval for any rate,
rating plan, rating system, or underwriting rule for all such personal private passenger motor vehicle insurance.
House Bill 222

Amends Department of Insurance’s Practices
Sponsors: Representative Lumsden of the 12th and Senator Walker of the 20th
This legislation clarifies that the Department of Insurance only regulates service contracts that are sold to consumers.
This bill also extends the validity of probationary licenses for insurers. Additionally, the Commissioner is granted
discretion to allow an applicant whose application has been refused or revoked to file an application for licensure after
one year from the effective date of refusal. This legislation also amends information required on all Public Adjuster
Contracts.
House Bill 294

Administration of Certain Rehabilitation Policies by a Ceding Insurer Placed Into Liquidation; Allows
for Certain Additional Value-Added Products or Services
Sponsors: Representative DeLoach of the 167th and Senator Walker of the 20th
This bill allows additional value-added products or services that are excluded from being unfair trade practices or
unlawful inducements. This legislation also allows certain guaranty associations to elect to assume all the rights and
obligation of a ceding insurer who has been placed into liquidation. Additionally, a receiver may also elect to assume
all the rights and obligation of a ceding insurer who has been placed into liquidation. This bill further allows for the
transfer of the reinsurance policies and annuities to an assuming insurer under certain conditions. This legislation
establishes a mandatory negotiation procedure for reinsurance contracts terminated under this legislation.

House Bill 295
Amends Certain Procedures Relating to Consumer Protections Against Surprise Billing
Sponsors: Representative Hawkins of the 27th and Senator Hufstetler of the 52nd
This legislation clarifies certain conduct of insurers which constitute an unfair claims settlement practice.
Additionally, this bill amends the arbitration process under the Surprise Billing Consumer Protection Act.
House Bill 315

Amends Definitions and Requires the Insurance Commissioner Establish Rules and Regulations
Sponsors: Representative Taylor of the 173rd and Senator Kirkpatrick of the 32nd
Effective Date: Upon the Governor’s Approval; Applies to all policies or contracts entered or renewed on
and after January 1, 2024
This bill requires the Insurance Commissioner to promulgate rules and regulations necessary to implement the cost-
sharing requirements for diagnostic and supplemental breast screening examinations in accordance with current
guidelines established by professional medical organizations such as the National Comprehensive Cancer Network.
This legislation also amends the definition of diagnostic breast examination and supplemental breast screening
examination by removing the requirement that these terms be defined by the guidelines established by the National
Comprehensive Cancer Network as of January 1, 2022.
House Bill 480

Amends Workers’ Compensation Benefits and Dependency Determinations
Sponsors: Representative Franklin of the 160th and Senator Walker of the 20th
This bill amends the surviving spouse dependency determinations for eligibility and termination of benefits.
Additionally, this legislation increases the compensation benefits for temporary total disability, temporary partial
disability, and the total compensation payable to a surviving spouse as a sole dependent for the death of an employee.
JUDICIARY
Senate Bill 44
Mandatory Minimum Penalties for Violations of Georgia Street Gang and Terrorism Prevention Act; Bail
Restricted Offenses and Unsecured Judicial Release
Sponsors: Senator Hatchett of the 50th and Representative Hong of the 103rd
This bill revises the punishment for violations of the Georgia Street Gang and Terrorism Prevention Act by striking
existing sentencing parameters and instead providing that, unless otherwise provided, violations are punished by a
mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of between five (5) and twenty (20) years, to be served consecutively to
other imposed sentences, and no portion of the mandatory minimum sentence may be suspended, stayed, probated,
deferred, or withheld by the sentencing court. This bill additionally provides for motion by the district attorney for
deviation from the mandatory minimum if a defendant provides substantial assistance in the identification, arrest, or
conviction of such person’s accomplices, accessories, conspirators, leaders, or principals. This bill additionally provides
that a judge may deviate from the mandatory minimum if the judge concludes that the defendant was not the leader
of the criminal conduct; the defendant did not possess or use a firearm, dangerous weapon, or hazardous object during
the crime; the criminal conduct did not result in death or serious bodily injury to a person other than someone who
was a party to the crime; that the defendant has no prior felony conviction; and that the interests of justice will not
be served by the imposition of the prescribed mandatory minimum sentence. A judge must specify the circumstances
for the reduction from the mandatory minimum and the interests served by such departure. This order is appealable
by the State of Georgia.
This bill additionally revises sentencing under the Georgia Street Gang and Terrorism Prevention Act for recruiting
if such violation involves a person who is under 17 years of age or a person with a disability, are punished on a first
conviction by a mandatory term of imprisonment of ten (10) to twenty (20) years, to be served consecutively to other
imposed sentences, and no portion of the mandatory minimum sentence may be suspended, stayed, probated, deferred,
or withheld by the sentencing court. Upon a second or subsequent conviction, violators are punished by a mandatory
term of imprisonment of fifteen (15) to twenty-five years (25), to be served consecutively to other imposed sentences,
and no portion of the mandatory minimum sentence may be suspended, stayed, probated, deferred, or withheld by the
sentencing court. Neither the district attorney nor the judge is permitted to deviate from any mandatory minimums
provided for such violations.

Further, this bill prohibits a person’s unsecured judicial release on a person’s own recognizance if such person has
been convicted of a bail jumping offense or if a bench warrant has been issued based on failure to appear in court
within in the past five years. This bill also requires consideration of criminal history prior to issuing an unsecured
judicial release. Finally, the bill adds all felony offenses contained within the definition of “criminal gang activity” as
bail restricted offences.
Senate Bill 59
Office of the Inspector General
Sponsors: Senator Hatchett of the 50th and Representative Hong of the 103rd
This bill creates the Office of the Inspector General (OIG), the purpose of which is to investigate the management and
operation of agencies. This bill authorizes the OIG to conduct investigations of alleged fraud, waste, abuse, or
corruption against an agency of the state. Additionally, this bill authorizes discipline, including employment
termination, for failure to comply with an OIG investigation.
Senate Bill 60
Secondary Metal Recyclers and Used, Detached Catalytic Converters
Sponsors: Senator Hatchett of the 50th and Representative McDonald of the 26th
Effective Date: Section 1-4, which authorizes secondary metals recyclers to make payments for regulated
property via cash, is effective January 1, 2024; Part Two of this bill, which provides for the sunset of
Section 1-4, is effective on January 1, 2026, and will apply to transactions occurring on and after that
date provided that Part Two will not affect the prosecution of any crimes for conduct under the previous
law while the law was effective and will not abate any prosecutions thereunder; all other parts of this
bill are effective July 1, 2023.
This bill makes it unlawful for a person to purchase, solicit, or advertise for the purchase of a used, detached catalytic
converter or any nonferrous metal parts of a catalytic converter, unless the person is a registered secondary metals
recycler in full compliance with all requirements. This bill revises the penalties for buying or selling regulated metal
property in violation of Article 14 of Chapter 1 of Title 10, regarding secondary metals recyclers, so as to provide that
when such regulated metal property is unlawfully obtained and results in property damage exceeding the aggregate
amount of $1,500.00, the violation is punished as a felony and is subject to imprisonment of between one and ten
years. Additionally, this bill provides that each unlawfully possessed or obtained used, detached catalytic converter is
considered a separate offense under this code section.
This bill authorizes secondary metals recyclers to make payments for regulated property via cash and provides
limitations for such payments. This provision sunsets on January 1, 2026. This bill authorizes the sheriff’s office to
require secondary metals recyclers submit certain information prior to the issuance or renewal of a secondary metals
recycler license. Additionally, this bill amends the required information a secondary metals recycler must report to
the GBI to include a statement as to whether such secondary metals recycler’s registration or business license has
been revoked, suspended, or canceled in the previous year. This bill additionally requires each secondary metals
recycler to electronically submit to the GBI a record of the receipt of each purchase of a used, detached catalytic
converter or any nonferrous metal parts of a catalytic converter, from an industrial account or a secondary metals
recycler.
Senate Bill 66
Additional Judge of the Superior Court of the Atlantic Judicial Circuit
Sponsor: Senator Hickman of the 4th and Representative Werkheiser of the 157th
This bill increases the number of superior court judges for the Atlantic Judicial Circuit from four to five judges. The
additional judge will be appointed by the governor for a term beginning on January 1, 2024, and expiring on December
31, 2026. A non-partisan judicial election will be held in 2026.

Senate Bill 74
Disclosure of the Nature and Practices of Businesses that Provide Legal Services; Apex Doctrine -
Protective Orders for Certain High Ranking Officers
Sponsor: Senator Tillery of the 19th and Representative James of the 176th
This bill prohibits the use of the words ‘legal services,’ ‘practice of law,’ ‘law firm,’ ‘attorney,’ ‘attorney at law,’ ‘lawyer,’
or equivalent terms in any language so as to imply that such person or entity is entitled to practice law, furnish legal
advice, services, or counsel for the purpose of misrepresenting the nature of a business or representing a person who
is not a duly licensed attorney at law as such. This bill additionally prohibits the failure to disclose or provide
qualifying legal information to accurately reflect the legal services and abilities of a person and provides that no duly
licensed attorney at law may solicit in any media any misleading statement concerning the legal services. This bill
prohibits solicitation of legal employment on behalf of an attorney or organization when the attorney or organization
would not be authorized to engage in legal employment. This bill further provides for the apex doctrine, which provides
that when a deposition is being sought from a high-ranking officer, such officer may seek a protective order.
Additionally, this bill requires chief executive officers of state government entities to provide a designee for service of
process for civil actions brought against the state under the Georgia Tort Claims Act.
Senate Bill 92
Prosecuting Attorneys Qualifications Commission
Sponsor: Senator Robertson of the 29th and Representative Gullett of the 19th
Effective Date: For the purposes of appointing members of the commission, this bill is effective upon its
approval by the Governor; for all other purposes, this bill is effective on July 1, 2023
This bill creates the Prosecuting Attorneys Qualifications Commission, which will have the power to discipline,
remove, and cause involuntary retirement of appointed or elected district attorneys or solicitors-general. The
membership of the commission, appointment and terms, filling of vacancies, and term limits of this commission are
set out by this bill. The commission will consist of an investigative panel and a hearing panel, the duties of each panel
are provided by this bill. This bill additionally provides grounds for discipline of a district attorney or solicitor-general
or for his or her removal or involuntary retirement from office.
Senate Bill 148

Clarifying, Modernizing and Revising Georgia Nonprofit Corporation Code
Sponsor: Senator Kennedy of the 18th and Representative Leverett of the 123rd
This bill revises the Georgia Nonprofit Corporation Code, as provided in Chapter 3 of Title 14 of the Georgia Code.
Many of these revisions provide for consistency between the Georgia Nonprofit Corporation Code and the Georgia
Business Corporation Code. Additionally, this bill clarifies language and streamlines definitions, modernizes the code,
and otherwise updates the code.
House Bill 77
Additional Judge of the Superior Court of the Dougherty Judicial Circuit
Sponsors: Representative Greene of the 154th and Senator Sims of the 12th
This bill increases the number of superior court judges for the Dougherty Judicial Circuit from three to four judges.
The additional judge will be appointed by the governor for a term beginning on January 1, 2024, and expiring on
December 31, 2026. A non-partisan judicial election will be held in 2026.
House Bill 80
Uniform Unsworn Declarations Act
Sponsors: Representative Leverett of the 123rd and Senator Kennedy of the 18th
This bill provides that certain unsworn declarations given under penalty of perjury by persons outside of the United
States, Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands, and any territory or insular possession subject to the jurisdiction
of the United States, have the same effect as a sworn declaration, provided it meets certain requirements, such as the
inclusion of a statement attesting that such statement is given under penalty of perjury and attesting that the
declarant is outside the geographic boundaries of the United States, Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands,
and any territory or insular possession subject to the jurisdiction of the United States. This bill additionally amends
the offense of perjury to include knowing and willful material false statements made by a person in the execution of
an unsworn declaration provided under this bill.

House Bill 88
“Coleman Baker Act”
Sponsors: Representative Gaines of the 120th and Senator Robertson of the 29th
This bill provides for reinvestigation of cold case murders based on application by an immediate family member of the
victim. This bill defines a cold case as a homicide that was committed more than three years prior to the application
for review by an immediate family member, that was previously investigated by an agency, and for which all probative
leads have been exhausted, or no likely perpetrator has been identified. This bill requires that all full reinvestigations
must include analyzing and reviewing all evidence. Additionally, this bill requires the Carl Vinson Institute of
Government of the University of Georgia to establish and maintain a case tracking system and searchable public
website regarding cold case murder investigations. This bill also authorizes the coroner or medical examiner to issue
a death certificate with a nonspecific cause of death and manner of homicide for deaths which occur under the
circumstances surrounding a death which is required to be reported to a medical examiner or coroner, provided the
release of such information would not hinder the homicide investigation.
House Bill 91
Notice to Will Beneficiaries Regarding Filing of Petitions to Probate Wills and Revision to the Definition
of “Security Account” for the Uniform Transfer on Death Security Registration Act.
Sponsors: Representative Wade of the 9th and Senator Hatchett of the 50th
This bill requires personal representatives who are probating a will to notify beneficiaries of such will that letters
testamentary or letters of administration have been issued, within 30 days of such issuance. Such notice must inform
the beneficiaries that the letters have been issued and provide the name, mailing address and telephone number of
the personal representative, unless the beneficiary has waived such notice in writing and the personal representative
must file copies of the notice with the probate court. The bill further provides that any personal representative who
fails, without sufficient cause, to provide their name, mailing address, and telephone number within five business
days of a request by a beneficiary or the court, or who does not comply with the above notice requirements, may be
cited to appear and show cause why the representative’s letters should not be revoked.
This bill revises the definition of security account within the Uniform Transfer on Death Registration Act to include
the following: an investment management account, investment advisory account, investment agency account, custody
account, or any other type of security or trust account with a financial institution, 1 including the securities in the
account, the cash balance in the account, and cash equivalents, and any interest, earnings, or dividends earned or
declared on a security in the account, whether or not credited to the account before the owner's death.
House Bill 139

Preventing Disclosure of Certain Personal Information of Nonsworn Employees of Law Enforcement
Agencies Testifying in Criminal Cases
Sponsors: Representative Crowe of the 118th and Senator Albers of the 56th
The bill provides that neither law enforcement officers nor nonsworn employees of any law enforcement agency will
have their home address, date of birth, or home telephone number disclosed to the defendant of a felony or
misdemeanor criminal case. In such situations, prosecutors may use the address and phone number of the law
enforcement officer or nonsworn employee of a law enforcement agency’s current employer. Additionally, this bill
provides that former law enforcement officers and nonsworn employees of a law enforcement agency can use the
address and phone number of the last agency where they were employed as their contact information when testifying
in criminal felony or misdemeanor cases. The use of the agency contact information is a waiver of any claim of defect
of service or notice of hearing if the service or notice was provided to the designated law enforcement agency, and
imposes an affirmative obligation to keep their information current with the designated agency.
1 This bill incorporates the definition of “financial institution” from Code Section 7-1-911, which provides the term means a state
or national bank, a trust company, a state savings and loan association or a federal savings and loan association, a state or
federal credit union, an international bank agency doing business in the state pursuant to the International Bank Agency Act or
authorized to do business pursuant to Article 5 of Chapter 1 of Title 7, or a licensee under Article 4 or Article 4A of Chapter 1 of
Title 7 engaged in the business of cashing payment instruments or wire transfers.

House Bill 176
Increase Court Reporter’s Monthly Contingent Expense and Travel Allowance
Sponsors: Representative Gunter of the 8th and Senator Hatchett of the 50th
This bill increases the monthly contingent expense and travel allowance to double the amount previously prescribed
by law.
House Bill 182

Curing Defective Unattested Deeds and Trustee Foreclosure of Time-Share Estates
Sponsor: Representative Reeves of the 99th and Senator Strickland of the 17th
Effective Date: Section One (regarding curing defective deeds) is effective upon approval by the Governor
and Sections Two and Three (regarding time-share foreclosure) are effective on July 1, 2023.
This bill amends the remedial statute for curing defective deeds to remove reference to acknowledgment, and, in doing
so, allows deeds that have been acknowledged but not attested to be cured.
Additionally, this bill provides for a trustee foreclosure procedure as an additional method through which an owner’s
association or its managing agent, or a mortgagee may foreclose its lien upon a time-share estate. The bill provides
requirements for who may serve as trustee, certain notice requirements, and permits the owner of a time-share estate
to cure default and redeem the estate.
House Bill 186

Conformity with Superior Court Appellate Practice Act
Sponsor: Representative Leverett of the 123rd and Senator Kennedy of the 18th
This bill amends the Superior Court Appellate Practice Act to revise the exception to the 30-day time period in which
petitions for review must be filed by removing the specific reference to the Code Section governing appeals from
decisions of county boards of equalization and instead providing instead that such time period controls ‘except as
otherwise prescribed by law.’ Additionally, the act provided for the uniform use of “petition for review” rather than
providing for petitions to superior courts by certiorari or by de novo proceedings. This bill corrects references in Code
Sections 5-6-35, 5-7-3, and 36-32-2.1 so as to provide for certificates of review.
House Bill 219

Venue for Money Laundering and Theft Offenses of Money Held in a Financial Institution
Sponsor: Representative Hilton of the 48th and Senator Albers of the 56th
This bill provides venue for the offense of money laundering is proper in any county in which the accused held control
over the currency, in which any act was performed in furtherance of the transaction, and in which an alleged victim
resides. Additionally, this bill provides venue for theft offense where money is held in a financial institution is proper
in any county in which any act was performed in furtherance of such transaction or an alleged victim resides.
House Bill 227

Offenses Related to Damaging Critical Infrastructure
Sponsor: Representative Leverett of the 123rd and Senator Cowsert of the 46th
Effective: July 1, 2023
This bill amends the offense of criminal damage to property in the first degree to provide that it may be committed by
the use of electronic means to interfere with the proper operation of certain property. Additionally, this bill further
revises the offense of criminal damage to property in the first degree to include interference with the proper operation
of ‘vital public services’ and ‘critical infrastructure,’ meaning publicly or privately owned facilities, systems, functions,
or assets, whether physical or virtual, providing or distributing services for the benefit of the public. This bill provides
that violations of the offense of criminal damage to property in the first degree for interference with the proper
operation of any critical infrastructure or any vital public service will be punished by imprisonment of between two
and twenty years. Additionally, this bill revises the offense of damaging, injuring, or interfering with property of public
utility companies, municipalities, or political subdivisions to prohibit the alteration or interference with any critical
infrastructure.

House Bill 243
Additional Judge of the Superior Court of the Coweta Judicial Circuit
Sponsor: Representative Smith of the 70th and Senator Brass of the 28th
This bill increases the number of superior court judges for the Coweta Judicial Circuit from seven to eight judges. The
additional judge will be appointed by the governor for a term beginning on January 1, 2024, and expiring on December
31, 2026. A non-partisan judicial election will be held in 2026.
House Bill 302

Temporary or Permanent Protective Orders to Prevent Recurrence of Stalking
Sponsor: Representative Franklin of the 160th and Senator B. Watson of the 1st
This bill amends Code Section 16-5-94, which provides that the court may grant a protective order or approve a consent
agreement to bring about a cessation of conduct constituting stalking as defined in Code Section 16-5-90, which
describes stalking as when a person follows, places under surveillance, or contacts another person at or about a place
or places without the consent of the other person for the purpose of harassing and intimidating the other person. This
bill provides that such protective orders granted by the court may be on a temporary or permanent basis.
House Bill 444

Lis Pendens Regarding Real Property (Notice of Pending Lawsuit and That Ownership of the Property
is Contested)
Sponsor: Representative Reeves of the 99th and Senator Strickland of the 17th
This bill creates a new Article in Chapter 14 of Title 44 (relating to mortgages, conveyances to secure debt, and liens)
to provide that, except for actions under Title 19 (domestic relations), no action as to real property in Georgia will
operate as a lis pendens until the court issues a lis pendens. Additionally, this bill provides the criteria for the court
to issue a lis pendens to real property in such cases. This bill further requires the clerks of superior courts to maintain
a lis pendens docket to record notices of lis pendens on real property. This bill additionally provides discretionary
appellate review.
House Bill 475

Code Revision Commission Proposed Edits and Revisions to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated
Sponsor: Representative Smith of the 18th and Senator Kennedy of the 18th
This bill incorporates numerous edits and corrections to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated as recommended by
the Code Revision Commission. The Commission to revise, modernize, and correct errors or omissions in the Code or
the laws of Georgia or to repeal portions of the Code or laws which have become obsolete, have been declared to be
unconstitutional, or have been preempted or superseded by subsequent state or federal laws.
House Bill 543

Increases Minimum Claimed Damages Required to Demand a Civil Action in State Court be Tried by a
Jury of 12
Sponsor: Representative Reeves of the 99th and Senator Cowsert of the 46th
This bill increases the minimum amount of damages that must be claimed from greater than $25,000.00 to greater
than $50,000.00 to authorize a party in a civil action in state court to demand a case be tried by a jury of 12 instead
of six.
NATURAL RESOURCES AND THE ENVIRONMENT
Senate Bill 121

Well Water Supply
Sponsors: Senator L. Anderson of the 24th and Representative Camp of the 135th
This legislation prohibits government entities from denying repairs to wells servicing single family residential
properties and prohibits local governments from prohibiting the installation of new water wells on single-family
residential properties situated on one acre of property or more.

House Bill 165
Public Disclosure Exceptions for the Department of Natural Resources
Sponsors: Representative New of the 64th and Senator Anavitarte of the 31st
This legislation adds Department of Natural Resources records that contain information relating to the location or
character of a historic resource to the list of types of public records that are not subject to public disclosure that exists
in current law. In order to be exempt, the Department must determine that disclosure could create a substantial risk
of harm, theft, or destruction to a historic resource, or any property, real or personal, at or near the location of a
historic resource.
House Bill 207

Boating Accident Procedures
Sponsors: Representative Rhodes of the 124th and Senator L. Anderson of the 24th
This legislation provides requirements for the operation of vessels upon coastal waters. Further, this bill requires the
operator of any vessel involved in an accident, collision, or other casualty to immediately stop such vessel at the scene
or stop as close as possible, immediately return, render reasonable assistance, and immediately notify emergency
medical services and law enforcement if an injured party is unconscious, disappears, or appears dead. The operator
must remain at the scene of the accident until fulfilling the preceding requirements unless they need to leave the
scene to notify emergency medical personnel or law enforcement. When an accident is the proximate cause of death,
disappearance, or injury that requires medical treatment, any person who knowingly fails to stop and comply with the
requirements previously listed is guilty of a felony, carrying a sentence of between one and five years.
PUBLIC SAFETY
Senate Bill 11
Georgia Fights Terrorism Act
Sponsors: Senator Albers of the 56th and Representative Lott of the 131st
This bill authorizes the GBI to work independently, work concurrently with other law enforcement agencies, and
request the assistance of other law enforcement agencies, when, in the sole discretion of the director, such work would
not compromise the successful completion of cases involving the identification, investigation, arrest, and prosecution
of an individual or groups of individuals for the violation of laws involving domestic, cyber, biological, chemical, and
nuclear terrorism.
Senate Bill 42
Human Trafficking Hotline Information: Increasing the Fine for Failure to Comply with Model Notice
Requirements
Sponsors: Senator Hodges of the 3rd and Representative Wade of the 9th
Under Georgia law, certain businesses and establishments must post the model notice provided by the GBI or
substantially similar notice providing information on how to contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
Currently, failure to do so results in the misdemeanor offense of failure to post the National Human Trafficking
Resource Center hotline number and may be punished by a fine of not more than $500. A second or subsequent offense
is a high and aggravated misdemeanor that must be punished by a fine not to exceed $5,000. This bill increases the
fine so that the first offense must be punished by a fine of not less than $500 nor more than $1,000. It also requires
that the second or subsequent offense is punished by a minimum fine of $1,000, while maintaining the current
maximum of $5,000.
Senate Bill 68
Including Dogfighting as a Racketeering Activity
Sponsors: Senator Williams of the 25th and Representative Vance of the 133rd
O.C.G.A. § 16-14-3(5)(A) lists offenses that qualify as racketeering activity. This bill adds the offenses enumerated in
Code Section 16-12-37, which includes dogfighting, to the list.

Senate Bill 120
Updating the Reference to Federal Regulations on the Safe Operation of Motor Carriers and Commercial
Motor Vehicles
Sponsors: Senator Echols of the 49th and Representative Daniel of the 117th
This bill updates the reference to federal regulations regarding the safe operation of motor carriers and commercial
motor vehicles, so that “present regulations” refers to regulations promulgated under 49 C.F.R. in force and effect on
January 1, 2023.
Senate Bill 155

Figo’s Law
Sponsors: Senator Kirkpatrick of the 32nd and Representative Washburn of the 144th
This bill provides for the offenses of interfering with a public safety animal or search and rescue animal, harming a
public safety animal or search and rescue animal, and aggravated harming of a public safety animal or search and
rescue animal. This bill also requires the court to order a defendant to make restitution to the owner of a public safety
animal or search and rescue animal for the costs of the veterinary expenses incurred in treatment and the costs of any
restorative training necessary to enable the animal to resume its duties.
Senate Bill 218

Issuing Identification Cards to People Completing Term of Incarceration
Sponsors: Senator Rhett of the 33rd and Representative Werkheiser of the 157th
This bill provides that DDS, working with GDC, may issue a personal ID card to any Georgia resident lacking a
personal ID upon the completion of a term of incarceration in any prison or detention facility of this state or its
departments or agencies, and upon the submission of required documentation. GDC may provide DDS copies of any
documentation in its possession required for the issuance of a personal identification card. Additionally, the bill
provides that when a person is released from confinement from GDC, the department must issue to each releasee,
with his or her consent, documents pertaining to: (1) the releasee’s program history, including: whether the releasee
completed training requested by the State Board of Pardons and Paroles, whether the releasee completed programs
recommended by the department, whether the releasee obtained a state approved high school equivalency diploma or
other educational degree while incarcerated, and the releasee’s institutional work record, including skills obtained
through any job training; and (2) other information considered relevant by the department. The bill also provides that
when a person is released from confinement from GDC, the department may, in conjunction with DDS, issue such
releasee a personal ID card and a Program and Treatment Completion Certificate, if the releasee is eligible.
House Bill 120

Standards for Issuance and Revocation of Limited Driving Permits for Certain Offenders
Sponsors: Representative Corbett of the 174th and Senator Albers of the 56th
This bill adds people whose licenses were suspended due to (1) a conviction of driving or being in actual physical
control of a moving vehicle while under the influence of a controlled substance or marijuana; or (2) failure to comply
with an order for child support to the list of those eligible to apply for a limited driving permit. The bill also provides
for revocation of limited driving permits when a permittee is not in compliance with an order for child support.
House Bill 142

United Campus Police Forces
Sponsors: Representative Mainor of the 56th and Senator Payne of the 54th
This bill provides that on any campus of an educational facility for any college or university which has entered into a
united police force agreement, a campus policeman employed by any of the colleges or universities participating in the
united police force agreement who is certified has the same law enforcement powers, including the power of arrest, as
a law enforcement officer of any local government with police jurisdiction over the campuses. The bill defines “united
police force agreement” as a contract entered into by two or more colleges or universities for the purpose of sharing
campus policemen and related resources. Additionally, the bill modifies the definition of “campus” so as to include the
grounds and buildings owned or occupied by any college or university that has entered into a united police force
agreement.

House Bill 175
Special License Plates
Sponsors: Representative Daniel of the 117th and Senator Merritt of the 9th
This bill provides for a special license plate for each state constitutional officer and each member of the Public Service
Commission. It also provides for special license plates for the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, the Alpha Phi Alpha
Fraternity, and retired members of the U.S. active reserve components and members of the Georgia National Guard.
Additionally, the bill removes the requirement that a motor vehicle display a certain license plate in order to qualify
for an exemption from ad valorem taxation for disabled veterans.
House Bill 188

Mariam’s Law
Sponsors: Representative Sainz of the 180th and Senator Albers of the 56th
Effective Date: Upon Governor’s Approval; punishment provisions apply to all offenses committed on and
after July 1, 2023
This bill defines “sexual felony” and provides that any person having been previously convicted of a sexual felony who
is convicted of any of the offenses listed below must be punished by: (1) life imprisonment; or (2) a split sentence that
is a term of imprisonment followed by probation for life. As a condition of such probation, the court must require
electronic monitoring as set forth in the bill. These offenses include: the offense of aggravated assault with the intent
to rape; the offense of kidnapping involving a victim under 14 years old, except by a parent; the offense of trafficking
of persons for sexual servitude; the offense of rape; the felony offense of aggravated sodomy; the felony offense of
statutory rape when the individual convicted was 21 years of age or older; the felony offense of child molestation or
aggravated child molestation; the felony offense of enticing a child for indecent purposes; the felony offense of improper
sexual contact by an employee, agent, or foster parent in the first or second degree; the offense of incest; the offense
of aggravated sexual battery; or the felony offense of sexual exploitation of children. Additionally, this bill changes the
name of the Sexual Offender Registration Review Board to the Sexual Offender Risk Review Board. It provides for
risk assessment classification and electronic monitoring and outlines procedures for various related proceedings.
House Bill 242

Additional Penalty for Violation of Traffic Laws or Ordinances
Sponsors: Representative Hitchens of the 161st and Senator Albers of the 56th
Effective Date: July 1, 2023, and applies to offenses committed on or after such date
This bill adds a new Code section to Joshua’s Law, providing for an additional penalty of a sum equal to 3 percent of
the original fine in each case in which a court imposes a fine or bond payment for a violation of the traffic laws of
Georgia or for violations of an ordinance of any political subdivisions that have adopted by reference the traffic laws
of Georgia. The additional penalty sum must be in addition to any amount required to be paid into any pension,
annuity, or retirement fund under Title 47 or any other law of Georgia and in addition to any other amounts provided
for in the relevant article.
House Bill 268

Motor Vehicle Related Crime Prevention Initiatives: Grant Program and Advisory Board
Sponsors: Representative Corbett of the 174th and Senator Albers of the 56th
This bill requires the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council to, subject to available funding: (1) establish a grant
program to provide funds to local law enforcement agencies and multi-jurisdiction task forces for issues related to
motor vehicle related crime; (2) promote statewide planning and coordination of the investigation and prosecution of
crimes relating to motor vehicle and motor vehicle parts theft; (3) provide support to local prosecutors handling motor
vehicle and motor vehicle parts theft related to prosecutions; and (4) provide support to multi-jurisdiction task forces
established by local law enforcement agencies for the purpose of preventing, reducing, and investigating motor vehicle
related crime. This bill also provides for standards and conditions for the grant program and establishes the Georgia
Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Advisory Board.
House Bill 541

Passing Stationary Vehicles and Postal Service Vehicles
Sponsors: Representative Lumsden of the 12th and Senator Robertson of the 29th
This bill provides for the proper procedures for passing stationary vehicles and postal service vehicles.

REGULATED INDUSTRIES AND UTILITIES
Senate Bill 95
Tire Recycling Bill
Sponsors: Senator Robertson of the 29th and Representative Petrea of the 166th
This legislation adds a representative of the tire industry to the list of Governor’s appointees to the Recycling Market
Development Council. Further, this legislation revises the point of imposition and collection of a fee on the sale of new
replacement tires and provides for constitutional requirements.
Senate Bill 146

Electric Vehicle Charging
Sponsors: Senator Gooch of the 51st and Representative Jasperse of the 11th
Effective Date: Part II of the bill which provides regulative authority to the Department of Agriculture
and Part III of this bill which relates to revenue and taxation will become effective on January 1, 2025,
all other parts will become effective on July 1, 2023.
This legislation regulates the provision of electricity used as motor fuel in electric vehicles. The provision of electricity
to propel motor vehicles through an electric vehicle charging station is excluded from the regulative authority of the
Public Service Commission. The Department of Agriculture is given regulative authority over electric vehicle charging
stations and is tasked with their inspection. This legislation provides a framework for the condemnation and seizure
of noncompliant electric vehicle charging stations. Further, the bill provides for the collection of a motor fuel excise
tax upon the sale and use of certain electricity and hydrogen; and provides for procedures, conditions, limitations, and
exceptions upon the collection of such excise tax.
Senate Bill 149

Georgia Door-to-Door Sales Act
Sponsors: Senator Albers of the 56th and Representative Dickey of the 140th
This legislation defines “door-to-door sale” as a sale, lease, or rental of goods or services that is: solicited in person by
a seller or their representative, including solicitations in response to or following an invitation by the buyer; and for
which the buyer’s agreement or offer to purchase is made at a place other than the seller’s place of business; and that
contains at least two of the following three components: (1) payments of $10,000 or more, (2) a lease or financing
agreement with a term of more than 120 months, and (3) is eligible or alleged to be eligible for federal tax credits.
This bill imposes a requirement on the seller to provide the buyer with a receipt or copy of the contract pertaining to
any door-to-door sale at the time of its execution that meets certain requirements. In the event of a cancellation, the
buyer must be able to retain a copy of the receipt or contract. This bill requires sellers in door-to-door sales to orally
notify buyers of their right to cancel. Additionally, the seller must provide each buyer with a notice of cancellation
form at the time of contract execution. This bill prohibits sellers from negotiating, transferring, selling, or assigning
any evidence of indebtedness to a third party before midnight on the second day following the end of the buyer’s
cancellation period. The rights of buyers in this type of sale are not limited to those previously enumerated. Buyers
must have all applicable state and federal rights and remedies.
Senate Bill 193

Broadband Updates
Sponsors: Senator Gooch of the 51st and Representative Parsons of the 44th
This legislation requires the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) to determine locations eligible for state or
federal funding programs administered by the state for improved broadband services and to determine certain data
for locations eligible for such funding programs and to publish such determinations. Additionally, this bill provides
for certain persons and entities to have access to provider-specific information.
House Bill 155

Expanding Licensure by Endorsement
Sponsors: Representative Martin of the 49th and Senator Albers of the 56th
This legislation provides for the issuance of licenses by endorsement for certain professions and changes certain
provisions related to expedited licenses by endorsement for spouses of service members and transitioning service
members. Further, this legislation provides for licenses by endorsement for certain professions other than firefighters,
healthcare providers, and law enforcement officers and establishes qualifications for licenses by endorsement.

House Bill 493
Verification of Competency
Sponsors: Representative Hatchett of the 155th and Senator Walker of the 20th
This legislation revises a provision regarding verification of competency as it relates to the renewal, surrender, and
restoration of registered professional nursing licenses and continuing competency requirements to allow for a
verification of competency by a health care facility or entity operated exclusively by the federal government or any of
its agencies.
RETIREMENT
Senate Bill 128

Increases the Alternative Investment Limit for Peace Officers’ Annuity and Benefit Fund
Sponsor: Senator Albers of the 56th and Representative Hitchens of the 161st
Current law provides that alternative investments by an eligible large retirement system must not in the aggregate
exceed 10 percent of the retirement system’s assets at any time. Alternative investment by the Georgia Firefighters’
Pension Fund, Teacher’s Retirement System, and Employees’ Retirement System are currently three exceptions to
this general rule. This bill adds alternative investments by the Peace Officers’ Annuity and Benefit Fund to the list of
exceptions and provides that these investments must not in the aggregate exceed 15 percent of the Fund’s assets at
any time.
Senate Bill 199

Authorizes the State’s Employee Benefit Plan Council to Establish Health Savings Accounts
Sponsor: Senator Esteves of the 6th and Representative Martin of the 49th
This bill authorizes the state’s Employee Benefit Plan Council to provide a flexible employee benefit plan that provides
for deductions or salary reductions for health savings accounts as authorized under Section 223 of the U.S. Internal
Revenue Code. This type of flexible benefit plan is available to employees of the state, public school teachers, and
public school employees. This bill gives the state’s Employee Benefit Plan Council the discretion to provide deductions
or salary reductions as part of the flexible employee benefit plan. However, beginning January 1, 2025, such flexible
employee benefit plan must continually provide for deductions or salary reductions relating to health saving accounts.
House Bill 317

Authorizes Group Term Life Insurance Provided for Eligible Members of the State Employees’, Judicial,
and Legislative Retirement System Beneficiaries to Assign Due Payments to Funeral Directors or
Embalmers
Sponsor: Representative Taylor of the 173rd and Senator Williams of the 25th
This bill authorizes a named beneficiary of a group term life insurance benefit payment due from either of the trust
funds to assign the life insurance benefit to a funeral director or embalmer to pay the cost of funeral services. To make
this assignment, the beneficiary must: (1) authorize the assignment on a form prescribed by the board of directors of
the State Employees’ Assurance Department; (2) attach a notarized copy of the contract between the beneficiary and
the funeral director or embalmer; and (3) attach a copy of the former member’s death certificate. Upon a valid
assignment, the Department must pay the amount due to the funeral director or embalmer, but only to the extent
that such amount is owed to the beneficiary who made the assignment.

RULES
Senate Bill 272

Reestablishing the Criminal Case Data Exchange Board
Sponsors: Senator Kennedy of the 18th and Representative Gunter of the 8th
This bill provides for the reestablishment of the Criminal Case Data Exchange Board as an advisory board for the
benefit of the judicial and executive branches of Georgia’s state government. The bill provides for membership, powers,
and administrative matters related to the Board. It expands the duties of district administrative judges to assist courts
with the implementation and continued maintenance of uniform standards promulgated by the Board.
Senate Resolution 334

Amending Senate Rules to Prohibit Certain Travel at the Expense of the Senate
Sponsor: Senator Kennedy of the 18th
Effective Date: March 21, 2023
This resolution amends Senate Rule 1-2.4, relating to travel and reimbursement for Senators, and Senate Rule 1-3.2,
relating to travel and reimbursement for Senate employees, by prohibiting members and employees of the Senate from
traveling outside the United States at the expense of the Senate. It also requires the Committee on Administrative
Affairs to establish written guidelines for approving travel authorized under the Senate rules. The resolution further
prohibits any Senate member who, in the final six months of the term of office to which he or she was elected or
appointed, is not at that time a candidate for a state elective office, from travelling outside the State of Georgia at the
expense of the Senate.
House Bill 373

Designating September 11 of each year as First Responders Appreciation Day
Sponsors: Representative S. Jones of the 60th and Senator James of the 35th
This bill designates September 11 of each year as First Responders Appreciation Day in Georgia.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Senate Bill 181

Allows for Certain Fingerprint Criminal Background Checks by GTA
Sponsors: Senator Payne of the 54th and Representative Smith of the 18th
This legislation authorizes the Georgia Technology Authority (GTA) to conduct certain fingerprint criminal
background checks of all current and prospective employees, contractors, and subcontractors with access to state or
federal tax documents. Under this legislation, GTA must submit these fingerprints to the Georgia Crime Information
Center (Center). Additionally, these fingerprints must be in a form and quality as determined by the Center. The
results of such checks must not be subject to public disclosure. This bill requires the Center to promptly transmit one
set of finger prints to the FBI for a search of their records. Additionally, the Center must retain one set of fingerprints
to conduct a search of its own records and those records to which it has access. The Center is further required to inform
GTA in writing of the results of its investigation. This legislation allows GTA to use the information obtained from
such checks to verify the identification of such a person. Additionally, GTA may use this information to evaluate the
fitness of such a person for initial or continued employment. However, GTA is only allowed to use this information for
the purpose of allowing or denying access to tax documents by employees of contractors and subcontractors.

STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Senate Bill 62
Prohibits Camping or Sleeping in Unauthorized Areas
Sponsors: Senator Summers of the 13th and Representative Dempsey of the 13th
This bill requires a county or municipal corporation not to adopt or enforce any written policy prohibiting the
enforcement of any ordinance prohibiting unauthorized public camping, sleeping, or obstruction of sidewalks. The bill
authorizes the Attorney General to bring a civil action against a county or municipality which adopts or enforces a
written policy that prohibits the enforcement of any ordinance prohibiting unauthorized camping, sleeping or
obstruction of sidewalks. Additionally, this bill provides for private individuals to bring a writ of mandamus when a
county or municipal corporation adopts a written policy of non-enforcement of any ordinance prohibiting unauthorized
public camping, sleeping, or obstruction of sidewalks. The bill also provides for an audit on public spending on
homeless programs and requires local government cooperation. It prohibits hospitals, local governments, and local
authorities from dropping off homeless individuals (with exceptions).
Senate Bill 116

Changes Initial Term of Lease or Contract for Sports Facilities/Arenas and Removes Renewal Period
Sponsors: Senator B. Watson of the 1st and Representative LaHood of the 175th
Currently, arenas, sports fields, stadiums and other recreational facilities may only be leased for a maximum term of
five years. After five years, the lease may be renewed for another term with a maximum length of five years. After the
expiration of the second lease period, the lease or contract must be subject to sealed bids or auction. Under this bill,
the maximum initial term of the lease or contract for the operation of an arena, sports field, stadium, or other
recreational facility is twenty years. This bill also removes the option to renew these types of leases.
Senate Bill 213

Pre-existing Mobile or Manufactured Homes: Prohibits Local Governments from Preventing the
Continuance of Lawful, Nonconforming Use of Property
Sponsors: Senator Burns of the 23rd and Representative Washburn of the 144th
This bill allows for the replacement of an existing mobile home or manufactured home by a new mobile home or
manufactured home even when this causes the continuance of a lawful, nonconforming use of the property on which
the home is placed. Additionally, the bill prohibits local governments from adopting or enforcing any zoning decision,
ordinance, regulation, restriction, or condition which was not required of the pre-existing home, which would prevent
the property owner’s continuance of the lawful nonconforming use that existed with regards to the pre-existing home.
House Bill 254

Allows for Alternative Procedures for Designation of the Official Legal Organ
Sponsors: Representative Jenkins of the 136th and Senator L. Anderson of the 24th
This bill creates an alternative procedure for the designation of the official legal organ of a county when no newspaper
meets the regular minimum requirements. Additionally, this bill increases the current maximum fees for publication
of legal advertisements. It allows for publication by website and also establishes a procedure for correcting published
errors.
House Bill 374

Landscape Equipment and Agricultural Fairness (LEAF) Act; Prohibits Local Government Restrictions
on Source of Energy, Fuel to Be Delivered, or Appliance to be Used; Municipal Deannexation of Property
Sponsors: Representative Thomas of the 21st and Senator Still of the 48th
This bill prohibits local regulation of gasoline-powered leaf blowers. Additionally, this bill prohibits local governments
from adopting any policy restricting or prohibiting the connection or reconnection of utility services or sales of certain
fuels based upon the appliance to be used by the customer.
This bill also imposes additional procedures, conditions, and limitations on the current process by which a municipal
corporation may deannex an area. These include limiting a deannexation action to ten parcels of property at a time
and prohibiting deannexation if the municipality has outstanding general obligation bond or revenue bond debt.

House Bill 437
Abolishes the Georgia State Indemnification Commission and Transfers Its Duties and Functions to the
Department of Administrative Services
Sponsors: Representative Hitchens of the 161st and Senator Albers of the 56th
Currently, law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, emergency management rescue
specialists, state highway employees, and prison guards who are disabled or killed in the line of duty may receive
financial benefits from the Georgia State Indemnification Fund (Fund). The Fund is directly administered by the
Department of Administrative Services (DOAS). The Georgia State Indemnification Commission (Commission)
functions as a review board to the DOAS in their administration of the Fund and considers appeals of DOAS decisions.
This bill abolishes the Commission and transfers the functions and duties of the Commission to either DOAS or the
DOAS Commissioner.
STATE INSTITUTIONS AND PROPERTY
House Resolution 157

Lease and Conveyance of State-Owned Real Property
Sponsors: Representative Greene of the 154th and Senator Harbison of the 15th
This resolution authorizes the lease or conveyance of state-owned real property in Appling, Bacon,
Effingham, Morgan, Newton, Walton, Muscogee, Rabun, and Taylor Counties. This resolution gives the legal
description of each property being sold or leased, as well as authorized conveyance amounts for each transaction.

Authorization of Easements on State-Owned Property
Sponsors: Representative Greene of the 154th and Senator Harbison of the 15th
This resolution authorizes the grant of non-exclusive easements in state-owned property located in Bacon, Calhoun,
Camden, Chatham, Clarke, Coffee, DeKalb, Emanuel, Fulton, Gwinnett, Jeff Davis, Monroe, Morgan, Polk, Tattnall,
Towns, Washington, and Wheeler counties. These easements will be used for the construction, installation, operation,
and maintenance of facilities, utilities, roads, and any ingress and egress within property owned by the state. This
resolution describes, in detail, the property being affected, the easement being authorized, the intended recipient of
the easement, and various terms for each easement.
TRANSPORTATION
House Bill 35
Powers of the Georgia Ports Authority and Its Peace Officers
Sponsors: Representative Hitchens of the 161st and Senator B. Watson of the 1st
This bill revises the powers of the Georgia Ports Authority, authorizing it to appoint and select employees designated
as security personnel and peace officers. The bill also expands the duties and powers of Georgia Ports Authority peace
officers.
House Bill 121

Wakesurfing and Wakeboarding; Multipurpose Off-highway Vehicles
Sponsors: Representative Anderson of the 10th and Senator Kennedy of the 18th
This bill prohibits engaging in wakesurfing or wakeboarding on the waters of Georgia: (1) between sunset and sunrise;
(2) within 200 feet of any moored vessel; any wharf, dock, pier, piling, or bridge structure or abutment; or any shoreline
adjacent to a full-time or part-time residence, public park, public beach, public swimming area, marina, restaurant,
or other public use area; or (3) when surfing a wake or being towed on a board, without wearing a personal flotation
device. However, the bill provides that these restrictions and the flotation device requirement do not apply to: (1) a
regatta, boat race, marine parade, tournament, or exhibition for which the Commissioner of Natural Resources has
granted a marine event permit; or (2) intracoastal waterways, rivers, or private lakes. This bill also provides for the
operation of multipurpose off-highway vehicles on certain highways, as well as their registration, issuance of
temporary operating permits, annual licensing fees, and equipment and operating standards.

House Bill 183
Temporary Operating Permits; Motor Vehicles Failing to Comply with Vehicle Emission Standards;
Penalties for Failure to Pay Civil Monetary Penalties Relative to Illegal Speeding in School Zones
Sponsors: Representative Barton of the 5th and Senator Payne of the 54th
This bill does the following: (1) revises terminology relating temporary license plates by replacing such term with
temporary operating permits; (2) provides standards for the issuance of temporary operating permits for motor
vehicles failing to comply with vehicle emission standards upon vehicle registration renewal; and (3) revises penalties
for failure to pay civil monetary penalties related to illegal speeding in school zones.
House Bill 189

Allowable Variance for Weight Limitations Upon a Vehicle or Load Under Certain Conditions
Sponsors: Representative Meeks of the 178th and Senator Goodman of the 8th
This bill provides for an allowable variance of 10 percent from weight limitations, within a 150 mile radius of the farm
or point of origin and outside of a nonattainment area, for a vehicle: that is hauling any of the commodities listed in
O.C.G.A. § 32-6-26(g)(1)(A) hauling forest products from the forest where cut to the first point of marketing or
processing, (B) hauling live poultry or cotton from a farm to a processing plant, (C) hauling feed from a feed mill to a
farm, and (G) hauling poultry waste from the point of origin to a farm; which is hauling any other agricultural or farm
product from a farm to the first point of marketing or processing; which is hauling agricultural finished goods for
distribution or for retail sale and purchase by consumers; or which is hauling recovered materials from points of
generation to a processing facility. This bill outlines penalties for violations of weight limitations and authorizes local
law enforcement to enforce weight limitations, provided that such officers have been properly trained regarding laws
governing commercial motor vehicle weight and load, equivalent to training provided to certified officers in the Motor
Carrier Compliance Enforcement Section.
House Bill 529

Providing for Minimum Amounts of Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage to be Maintained
by Transportation Network Companies
Sponsors: Representative Williams of the 148th and Senator Walker of the 20th
Effective Date: July 1, 2023; applies to causes of action accruing on or after July 1, 2023
This bill provides for minimum amounts of uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage that transportation
network companies must maintain. During the time a driver accepts a ride request on the transportation network
company’s digital network until the driver completes the transaction or the ride is complete (whichever is later), this
bill requires uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage as required by Code Section 33-7-11, with minimum limits
of $300,000 for bodily injuries to or death of all persons in any one accident, with a maximum of $100,000 for bodily
injuries to or death of one person and $25,000 for loss of or damage to property of others, excluding cargo, in any one
accident.

Road and Bridge Dedications
Sponsors: Representative Pirkle of the 169th and Senator Dolezal of the 27th
This resolution contains House and Senate road and bridge dedications.
VETERANS, MILITARY, AND HOMELAND SECURITY
Senate Bill 21
Amending the Operations of the Georgia Veterans Service Foundation
Sponsors: Senator Kirkpatrick of the 32nd and Representative Bonner of the 73rd
Current law provides that the Georgia Veterans Service Foundation board of directors is to be composed of seven
people who must have honorably served at least three months in the U.S. Military or two years in a reserve or National
Guard component of the military. This bill expands board membership to a range of seven to thirteen people, and it
lowers the military service requirement from all members to only four board members. Furthermore, under current
law, board members serve seven-year terms that must be staggered so that one member completes a term each year.
This bill lowers the term period to three years and only requires such terms to be staggered, eliminating the

requirement for a member to be completing a term each year. Additionally, this bill increases the minimum frequency
of board meetings from at least once annually to at least quarterly. Currently, the board of directors is responsible for
appointing a CEO, COO, and CFO for the foundation, choosing employees of the Department of Veterans Service,
excluding the Commissioner; this bill shifts this responsibility from the board to the Commissioner of Veterans
Service.
Senate Bill 93
Restricting the Use of Certain Social Media Platforms on State Equipment
Sponsors: Senator Anavitarte of the 31st and Representative Crowe of the 118th
This bill prohibits a state employee or student from installing, using, or visiting any social media platform on state
equipment when: (1) the company that directly or indirectly owns or operates such social media platform is: (a) directly
or indirectly owned or operated by a foreign adversary or is domiciled in, has its principal place of business in, has
headquarters in, or is organized under the laws of a foreign adversary, (b) domiciled or has its principle place of
business or headquarters in a foreign adversary; or (c) organized under the laws of a foreign adversary; (2) a foreign
adversary has substantial direct or indirect control or influence over the content moderation practices of a company
which directly or indirectly owns or operates such social media platform; or (3) the social media platform uses software
or an algorithm that is directly or indirectly controlled or monitored by a foreign adversary. However, this bill allows
a state employee to install, use, or visit an otherwise prohibited social media platform for law enforcement purposes,
cybersecurity research and development, or judicial or legislative proceedings. This legislation also requires the
director of GEMA/HS to prepare, maintain, and update a list of social media platforms that violate this bill, as
determined by the director, and make the list publicly available on the agency’s website.
Senate Bill 115

Navigable Streams
Sponsors: Senator McLaurin of the 14th and Representative Hitchens of the 161st
This bill states that the General Assembly finds that Georgia procured ownership of all navigable stream beds within
its jurisdiction upon statehood, and as sovereign, is trustee of its people’s rights to use and enjoy navigable streams
that can be used for fishing, hunting, passage, navigation, commerce, and transportation, under the common law
public trust doctrine. Georgia continues to hold title to all such stream beds, except where title in a private party
originates from a valid Crown or state grant before 1863. The General Assembly also finds that the public retained
the aforementioned rights under such doctrine even where private title to beds originates from a valid grant.
House Bill 414

Veterans Mental Health Services Program
Sponsors: Representative Blackmon of the 146th and Senator B. Watson of the 1st
This bill requires the Department of Veterans Service to create and administer a grant program, to be known as the
Veterans Mental Health Services Program, to aid in the provision of behavioral health services through nonprofit
community behavioral health programs to eligible persons, which include service members, veterans, and their family
members. The Department of Veterans Service must, subject to the availability of funding, award competitive
matching grants to establish and expand nonprofit community behavioral health programs that: (1) provide behavioral
health services to eligible persons in the community; (2) utilize evidence based practices; (3) integrate military cultural
competency training for program staff members; and (4) connect eligible persons to appropriate community based
behavioral health services in a timely manner on discharge from the nonprofit community behavioral health program.
The Department of Veterans Service must develop grant program qualification requirements for applicants and
promulgate rules and regulations as necessary. Additionally, this bill provides that if taxpayer funded grants total
fifty percent of a non-profit’s total funding with any combination of federal, state, or local grants, the non-profit is
subject to the Open Records Act.

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2023 SESSION OF THE GEORGIA GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Prepared by the Senate Research Office | 2023 | Page 1 of 36

Senate Bill 103

House Bill 132

House Bill 528

House Bill 545

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BANKING AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

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Senate Bill 131

Senate Bill 133

Senate Bill 134

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Senate Bill 135

Senate Bill 216

House Bill 129

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM

Senate Bill 127

House Bill 128

EDUCATION AND YOUTH

Senate Bill 204

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Senate Bill 211

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House Bill 340

House Bill 402

House Bill 538

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Senate Bill 129

Senate Bill 222

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House Bill 138

House Bill 162

House Bill 230

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House Bill 408

House Bill 412

House Bill 431

House Bill 482

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Senate Bill 215

House Bill 193

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

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Senate Bill 106

Senate Bill 140

Senate Bill 164

Senate Bill 168

Senate Bill 197

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House Bill 203

House Bill 309

House Bill 332

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House Bill 416

House Bill 440

House Bill 453

House Bill 497

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Senate Bill 246