The first week of the 2025 Legislative Session has officially come to a close. It is a privilege to return to work under the Gold Dome, where I remain steadfast in my commitment to addressing the issues that matter most to Georgians across our great state.
This legislative session is already off to a strong start. Governor Kemp has laid out a bold vision, focusing on initiatives that include increasing funding for school safety, enhancing our skilled workforce, providing aid to families impacted by Hurricane Helene, and continuing to expand access to affordable healthcare for hardworking Georgians. By investing in high-demand, high-skill, and high-wage career opportunities, we are taking critical steps to secure Georgia’s economic future.
In service of the 31st Senate District, I’m proud to have already introduced four pieces of legislation. These bills and resolutions address key priorities for the state of Georgia and, specifically, communities within my district. My first bill this session is incredibly close to my heart. Entitled “Ricky and Alyssa’s Law,” it is named after two victims of horrific school shootings: Richard “Ricky” William Aspinwall, the defensive coordinator at Apalachee High School, and Alyssa Alhadeff, a student at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. This legislation will require all Georgia public schools to be equipped with mobile panic alarm systems, which enhance communication between school staff and first responders. Additionally, it mandates that every local school system catalog school mapping data for all public and private schools within its boundaries. I hope this legislation will honor Ricky and Alyssa’s memory by ensuring the security of our schools and providing them the justice they deserve.
While the first week has been productive, much work remains. Among the most pressing issues is supporting recovery efforts for communities devastated by Hurricane Helene. Many families, farmers, and small businesses are still grappling with the aftermath of this catastrophic storm. Governor Kemp’s announcement of $100 million in initial funding is an essential first step, but we know the road to recovery will be long and require sustained effort.
The Senate is committed to ensuring these communities have the necessary tools to rebuild. This includes expediting financial assistance, streamlining permitting processes for rebuilding critical infrastructure and working with federal and local partners to address gaps in relief. The resilience of these communities is a testament to the strength of Georgians, and we will do everything in our power to support those they represent.
During his annual “State of the State” address, Gov. Kemp highlighted the urgent need for tort litigation reform. Unfortunately, according to the American Tort Reform Foundation, Georgia has earned a reputation as having one of the most challenging legal climates in the country. We must work to reduce skyrocketing insurance premiums and ensure that frivolous lawsuits or excessive litigation costs do not weigh down businesses.
On a personal note, I’m pleased to share that the Senate has referred Senate Resolution 8 to the Senate Committee on Transportation. This resolution fulfills the promise I made in October to rename the intersection of State Route 92 and State Route 120 in Paulding County in honor of Deputy Brandon Cunningham, who gave his life in the line of duty. In Paulding County, we take pride in supporting our own, especially the brave men and women who serve on the front lines of our community. I am proud that Deputy Cunningham will be memorialized for his courage and sacrifice.
It is an honor beyond measure to serve the people of the 31st Senate District. Please don’t hesitate to contact my office with any legislative concerns, and I look forward to seeing many of you soon under the Gold Dome.
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Sen. Jason Anavitarte serves as Majority Caucus Chair. He represents the 31st Senate District, which includes Polk County and a portion of Paulding County. He may be reached at 404.656.0085 or by email at Jason.Anavitarte@senate.ga.gov.
For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.