The third week of the 2025 Legislative Session has wrapped up, and we’re staying focused on passing commonsense legislation that puts 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 been hard at work in joint sessions, carefully reviewing budget requests to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. Passing a balanced budget is not only our constitutional duty—it’s the foundation of a responsible government that serves its people.
One of the most crucial budget proposals this session is Governor Brian P. Kemp’s plan to return $1 billion in surplus funds to taxpayers directly. Thanks to years of conservative budgeting and fiscal responsibility, we can give back to the hardworking Georgians who keep our state running. This is just part of the $2.2 billion in statewide allocations designed to benefit families, businesses, and communities across Georgia. I’m proud to support Gov. Kemp’s efforts to strengthen our economy by putting money back where it belongs – in the pockets of hardworking Georgia taxpayers.
Another key priority is ensuring communities hit hardest by Hurricane Helene have the necessary resources to rebuild. Gov. Kemp has proposed $614.72 million in recovery funding, including $150 million for the Governor’s Emergency Fund to help with debris removal and housing assistance. Another $300 million will go to the Georgia Department of Transportation to restore roads and infrastructure. Many rural counties are still reeling from this storm, and we’re committed to ensuring they get the support they need to recover and move forward.
I’m excited to share that March 9th—12th is Multiple Sclerosis Week at the Capitol. This week, however, the Senate was honored to have several representatives from the Multiple Sclerosis Society, including my mother, Linda Brass, in the Senate chamber. Each year, members of the Society join us to recognize this week and bring attention to the medical condition. I commend the advocacy work conducted by the Multiple Sclerosis Society and their funding of $1 billion in research funding.
Finally, 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 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.
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Sen. Matt Brass serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Rules. Sen. Brass represents the 6th Senate District, which includes Coweta and Heard, as well as parts of Carroll County. He can be reached by email at matt.brass@senate.ga.gov
For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.