by Sen. Blake Tillery (R-Vidalia)

The 2026 Legislative Session is picking up steam. Even with winter weather causing a few delays, we have remained focused on delivering results for Georgians.

Governor Brian Kemp’s budget proposals for both the current and FY 2027 years are now before both chambers. Thanks to years of careful, conservative budgeting, Georgia remains on strong financial footing. That discipline allows us to make strategic investments while respecting taxpayer dollars and avoiding the kind of reckless spending seen elsewhere. We have remained focused on policies that help families, grow our economy, and keep Georgia a great place to live and work. That means lowering costs, supporting teachers and ensuring state government lives within its means, just like Georgia families do every day.

This week, the Senate passed SB 148, which supports teachers and students by expanding hands-on and outdoor learning opportunities while making common-sense updates to teacher leave policies. This legislation gives them greater flexibility and support so they can continue helping students succeed. I was proud to support this bill and appreciate my colleagues for working together to move it forward.

We also advanced one of our top priorities for protecting homeowners and reducing property taxes. Senate Bill 382 passed out of the Senate Committee on Finance and would require a statewide base-year homestead exemption for all local governments, while streamlining the process for calling referendums on local sales taxes. This bill restores fairness and consistency and helped homeowners know what to expect in property taxes.

While some remain focused on political distractions, I have remained committed to passing meaningful legislation and delivering real solutions. My priorities this session are affordability, accountability and opportunity for hardworking Georgians. From keeping property taxes in check, reducing income taxes and making government work for its citizens- these issues guide my work every day under the Gold Dome.

I am also pleased to share that my legislation, Senate Bill 402, passed out of the Senate Committee on Children and Families. This bill establishes a pilot program to screen and evaluate children with autism in the foster care system and provide specialized training for foster parents. Children in foster care with autism deserve the right resources, and this legislation helps ensure foster families have the tools they need to provide the best possible care.

As always, I value hearing from you and appreciate your input as the legislative session continues. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions, concerns, or ideas. It is an honor to represent you and to work on behalf of Georgia’s future.