Hatchett: Week Seven Under the Gold Dome

By Senator Bo Hatchett (R–Cornelia)

Crossover Day is almost here, which means the pace under the Gold Dome has intensified as we work to move Senate legislation to the House before the March 6 deadline. These final days before crossover are always long, but they are focused on advancing the priorities you’ve sent us to Atlanta to accomplish.

Before diving into policy, I want to welcome our newest Republican colleague, Sen. Steven McNeel of Macon. He now represents families from Fort Valley to Forsyth and joins us with a strong commitment to faith, family and free enterprise. I’m grateful to have another conservative voice working to protect our values under the Gold Dome.

This week, we sent the Amended Fiscal Year 2026 Budget to the Governor’s desk, one of the most important responsibilities we have as legislators. After weeks of detailed review, tough questioning, and negotiations with the House, we produced a budget rooted in conservative principles that will protect the rainy-day fund and return excess revenue to the taxpayers who earned it.

We’ve governed with discipline, and thus have delivered more than $1 billion in income tax relief and $850 million in homestead property tax relief. That is real, meaningful relief for families who are feeling the strain of rising insurance premiums, higher grocery bills and increased property assessments. Instead of growing government, we are shrinking its burden on you.

The budget also makes a long-overdue investment in public safety and mental health by dedicating more than $400 million to construct the first new state mental health hospital in Georgia since the 1960s. For too long, county jails have shouldered the responsibility of housing individuals struggling with serious mental illness. This facility will help ensure eligible individuals receive proper treatment while relieving pressure on local law enforcement and taxpayers. Supporting our men and women in uniform means giving them the tools to do their jobs effectively.

In addition to passing a responsible budget, we advanced Senate Bill 392, the “Waste Reduction Act of 2026.” This legislation implements zero-based budgeting practices, requiring state agencies to justify their expenditures from the ground up. Too often, the government relies on last year’s spending as a starting point. This reform demands accountability and ensures that every dollar reflects today’s priorities, not yesterday’s habits. Families and businesses regularly reevaluate their finances; state government should operate with the same level of scrutiny.

We also moved forward on important public safety and education measures. Senate Bill 433, “Rio’s Law,” passed unanimously and strengthens protections for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. By creating a voluntary special license plate and requiring additional law enforcement training, this bill promotes safer interactions and greater understanding across our communities.

Meanwhile, Senate Bill 513, the “Every Day Counts Act,” addresses chronic absenteeism in our schools. Students who miss significant classroom time face long-term academic and economic consequences. This legislation gives schools clearer tools to intervene early, encourage accountability and reinforce the expectation that education is not optional. If we want a strong workforce and vibrant economy tomorrow, we must insist on responsibility and engagement today.

This week, I introduced two bills to strengthen our workforce and increase transparency in local government. Senate Bill 553 updates licensure and certification requirements for plumbing, electrical, air conditioning, low-voltage and utility contractors. When Georgians hire someone to work on critical systems in their homes or businesses, they deserve confidence that the job will be done safely and correctly. This legislation helps ensure our utility workforce meets high standards while supporting skilled professionals who keep our communities running. SB 553 is currently in the Senate Judiciary Committee.

I believe it is important to recognize the men and women in law enforcement who demonstrate extraordinary courage in the line of duty. That is why I introduced Senate Resolution 856 to honor Officer Terry “J” Palmer for his heroic actions in Habersham County.

Two years ago, Officer Palmer responded to a welfare check at an apartment complex in Clarkesville involving an individual making suicidal threats. The situation quickly escalated when the individual retrieved an AR-15-style rifle and moved toward responding officers. In the midst of the gunfire that followed, Officer Palmer acted decisively to protect a fellow officer, putting himself in harm’s way without hesitation.

His bravery reflects the very best of law enforcement: courage under pressure, selflessness and an unwavering commitment to protecting others. I am proud to recognize Officer Palmer’s service and remain deeply grateful for the sacrifices made every day by the brave men and women who serve our communities.

Finally, I was glad to welcome the Habersham County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program to the Capitol. It was a pleasure meeting students from Habersham Central High School and Tallulah Falls School and seeing their interest in public service. Encouraging young leaders to get involved today helps ensure our communities remain strong tomorrow.

It is an honor to represent you, and I will continue fighting for a safer, more affordable and more prosperous Georgia. Don’t hesitate to reach out with your thoughts or concerns as we continue through the second half of the 2026 Legislative Session.

Sen. Bo Hatchett serves as a Governor’s Administration Floor Leader. He represents the 50th Senate District, which includes Banks, Franklin, Habersham, Rabun, Stephens, and Towns counties, as well as portions of Hall, Jackson, and White counties. He may be reached by phone at (404) 656-7454 or by email at [email protected].