Key Bills Moving as Session Nears End

With the legislative session ending on April 4th (Sine Die), time is running out for lawmakers to pass critical bills. The final days of the session often see a flurry of activity as legislators push to advance their priorities before the deadline.

Below is a non-exhaustive list of key bills that saw movement this week.

Tort Reform

The Legislature passed Governor Kemp’s tort reform bill, a major win for insurance companies that will do nothing to lower insurance costs for Georgians. The House approved the bill 91-82, with Rep. Au, Rep. Gilliard, and Rep. Jackson crossing party lines to vote in favor. Their support sparked controversy within the Democratic Caucus, as many saw it as a betrayal that favors businesses over victims’ rights.

Republicans gamed this situation so that the bill would pass by one vote, highlighting the Democrats that voted for it. Talk has already started of primarying Rep. Au and that Rep. Jackson might consider switching parties because of the backlash faced. With Democrats already at a 100-80 disadvantage in the House, more infighting plays right into Republicans’ hands.

RFRA

Passing SB 36, RFRA (Religious Freedom Restoration Act) would allow individuals or businesses to discriminate against marginalized groups, such as LGBTQ+ people, under the guise of religious freedom. It would undermine protections for equal rights by giving legal cover to discrimination, particularly in areas like employment, housing, and public services, harming vulnerable communities and rolling back progress toward equality and inclusivity.

Voter Suppression

House Bill 397, a revived “zombie” bill, would restrict early voting to one location per county, disproportionately impacting Georgia’s largest, most diverse Democratic-leaning counties. This blatant voter suppression tactic would create long lines, reduce access, and disenfranchise working-class voters, seniors, and communities of color. After similar efforts failed, Republicans resurrected this attack on voting rights, further undermining democracy. Rather than restricting access, Georgia should expand early voting to ensure fair, accessible elections for all, not just those with the privilege of time and resources.

Cell Phone Ban

The Georgia Legislature passed a bill banning cell phone use for students in grades K-8 during school hours, aiming to reduce distractions and improve academic performance. While exceptions for emergencies and educational purposes with teacher approval are permitted, schools must enforce the policy and can set their own guidelines. High school policies will remain at the discretion of local districts. The bill aligns with growing concerns over screen time and its impact on learning. The bill awaits Governor Kemp’s signature.

Highlighting Legislators Making Waves

This week, we are highlighting 5 House of Representatives members we think every Georgia Democrat should be familiar with! 

Ruwa Romman, from Gwinnett County, has been influential in creating the Georgia Volunteer Hub, a website connecting volunteers to numerous volunteer opportunities. Her platform includes green energy initiatives, protecting women’s reproductive rights, expanding healthcare, and gun safety initiatives. Fun fact: She attended Oglethorpe University in Brookhaven, GA!

Bryce Berry, from Fulton County, introduced several bills during his first session, such as requiring public meetings before big transportation projects so communities can give input and providing free school meals to students at the lowest-performing 25% of schools. His platform consists of fully funding public schools, raising teachers’ salaries, expanding Medicaid, and community empowerment! Fun fact: Bryce Berry was a math middle school teacher before being elected. 

Gabriel Sanchez, from Cobb County has been instrumental in organizing Atlanta’s Stop Cop City movement.  His platform consists of workers’ rights, affordable housing, raising the minimum wage, and universal healthcare. Fun fact: He has a dog named Winston and a cat named Kiki. 

Shea Roberts, from Fulton County, is an attorney and a small business owner! Her platform includes supporting small businesses, expanding Medicaid, fully funding our public schools, and affordable housing. Fun Fact: Shea made history by flipping Georgia’s House District 52 from red to blue in 2020. 

Inga Willis, from Cobb County, started the Mogul Group, which helps businesses and public figures with advice, planning, and promotion. She’s introduced bills supporting mental health for student-athletes and requiring companies to list harmful chemicals in cosmetics. Fun fact: Inga possesses a diverse career history, from being a celebrity brand manager to a political strategist.

Senator Ossoff Hits the Campaign Trail

The 2026 Georgia Senate race is poised to be a pivotal contest in one of the nation’s most competitive battleground states. As the only Democratic-held seat up for re-election in a state Trump won in 2024, this race is crucial to watch.

While Democrats hold both of Georgia’s US Senate seats, Republicans control the federal government, statewide executive offices, and the state legislature. With the Senate now split 53-47 in favor of Republicans, the outcome of this race could determine control of the chamber, shaping legislative priorities and the national agenda for years to come.

During the rally, our Senators had much to say about the Current Administration: 

Senator Warnock opened the rally by stressing the importance of federal workers and their contributions to the country. From protecting public health to taking care of veterans, their work has been overlooked and abused by those in power. Warnock also criticized the Trump administration for his “attack on ordinary people” by being out of touch with everyday struggles and villainizing immigrants who are the foundation of this country.

Senator Ossoff calls on Georgians to FIGHT. President Trump is picking on society’s most vulnerable populations—our brave veterans, our sick and disabled, and our children. He condemned Trump’s desire to appease the elites who bought the election for him and the cruel regard he has towards those who do not serve his interests. Ossoff also divulged the predatory practices elites use to get what they want, such as intimidating members of Congress with threats of opposition backed by super PAC funding. His message is clear: Trump and his allies seek to make this a nation that serves him and his peers and has us bow as his subjects. 

In this high-stakes race, potential GOP opponents are already emerging, including:

• Buddy Carter – US Representative for Georgia’s 1st Congressional District

• Marjorie Taylor Greene – US Representative for Georgia’s 14th Congressional District

• Burt Jones – Lieutenant Governor of Georgia

• Brad Raffensperger – Georgia Secretary of State

 Ways to Get Involved

Fact-based news without bias awaits. Make 1440 your choice today.

Overwhelmed by biased news? Cut through the clutter and get straight facts with your daily 1440 digest. From politics to sports, join millions who start their day informed.

Sign up now!