By: Sen. Blake Tillery (R–Vidalia)

The third week of the 2025 Legislative Session has wrapped up, and we remain focused on passing commonsense policies that put Georgia families, businesses, and communities first.

Last week’s snowstorm may have delayed budget hearings for a few days, but it didn’t slow us down. The General Assembly has worked hard in joint sessions, carefully reviewing agency budget requests to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. Passing a balanced budget isn’t just our constitutional duty—it’s the foundation of responsible government.

Some of the highlights of Governor Brian P. Kemp’s budget proposal include a plan to return $1 billion in surplus funds directly to taxpayers. Thanks to years of conservative budgeting and fiscal responsibility, we’re in a position to give back to the hardworking Georgians who drive our economy. This is part of a broader $2.2 billion package aimed at strengthening families, businesses, and communities across the state. I’m proud to support Gov. Kemp’s efforts to strengthen Georgia’s economy by putting money back in your pockets.Gov. Kemp has also proposed $614.72 million in recovery funding, including $150 million for the Governor’s Emergency Fund to assist with debris removal and housing support. Another $300 million is allocated to the Georgia Department of Transportation to restore roads and infrastructure.  The Governor also announced his tort/insurance reform package this year and I look forward to digging into that later, especially with the number of insurance claims many of you still are finding after our 2024 storms.

Back at the Capitol, we hit the ground running this week, advancing legislation that reflects Georgia’s values. I filed the following bills:

• Senate Bill (SB) 21 allows citizens to sue governments and government officials for not enforcing Georgia’s immigration laws.  This is in line with President Trump’s immigration policies and helps reestablish the rule of law for our border.

• SB 39 outlaws using Georgia taxpayer dollars to pay for transgender surgeries.

• SB 57, the Freedom of Speech and Belief Act, prohibits the practice of “debanking”, where banks and utilities from denying service to business and individuals because of their 1st or 2nd amendment beliefs.

We had a few local visitors this week. Alma and Bacon County hosted the entire Capitol for dinner Tuesday and the Leadership Wayne Group joined us Wednesday.  It’s always good to see folks from home.  Additionally, I encourage students ages 12 to 18 to apply for the Senate Page Program. This is an excellent way for young people to see firsthand how the General Assembly works. If you know a student who might be interested, they can apply on the Senate website here.

As always, I’m here to listen. If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas about our work at the Capitol, please don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s an honor to serve you, and I appreciate your trust as we work together throughout the remainder of the 2025 legislative session.