ATLANTA (September 23, 2025) — On September 18, Sen. Donzella James (D–Atlanta), as the Chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Urban Affairs, held a meeting to discuss rent control and homeowners’ association (HOA) regulations. The committee also heard from concerned Georgians about problems they have faced in their community associations, particularly regarding rent, fines, liens and foreclosures.
Continue reading “Sen. Donzella James Holds Committee Meeting to Discuss HOA and Rent Regulations”Sen. Josh McLaurin Releases Statement Addressing Imminent Deportation Ruling Regarding Journalist Mario Guevara
ATLANTA (September 19, 2025)—On Friday, September 19, Sen. Josh McLaurin (D–Sandy Springs) held a press conference and released a statement following a ruling by an immigration appeals court to dismiss Atlanta journalist Mario Guevara’s case and mandate his deportation from the United States.
“Today, an immigration agency that takes orders from the Trump administration reversed 13 years of legal proceedings to unilaterally deport journalist Mario Guevara. This is yet another example of the Trump administration’s pervasive attempts to stifle journalists and media from doing honest reporting or speaking unfavorably about the administration. This is one of the most dangerous periods for free speech in American history.”
Guevara, who has lawfully resided in the United States for over 20 years, was detained by ICE on June 18 while wearing a press badge. Although all charges against him have since been dropped, he remains in ICE custody and is imminently facing deportation to his home country of El Salvador. Guevara has developed a large following in Atlanta and gained national recognition for his reporting on immigration issues.
Sen. Josh McLaurin represents the 14th Senate District, which includes a portion of Fulton County. He may be reached by phone at (404) 463-4228 or by email at josh.mclaurin@senate.ga.gov.
For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.
Senate Study Committee on Making Georgia the No. 1 State for Tourism to Hold Second Meeting
ATLANTA (September 16, 2025) — On Wednesday, Sept. 24,2025, at 9:00 a.m., the Senate Study Committee on Making Georgia the No. 1 State for Tourism, chaired by Sen. Drew Echols (R–Alto), will hold its second hearing.
EVENT DETAILS:
- Date: Wednesday, September 24, 2025
- Time: 9:00 a.m.
- Location: Savannah Convention Center, Governor’s Ballroom, 1 International Dr., Savannah, GA 31421
- This event is open to the public and will be live-streamed on the Georgia General Assembly website here.
ABOUT THE MEETING:
The Senate Study Committee on Making Georgia the No. 1 State for Tourism, created through Senate Resolution 323, will discover opportunities to promote and develop tourism in all regions of the state, from small towns to big cities. This bipartisan committee will hear from industry leaders to gain a broader understanding of how Georgia’s diverse and dynamic tourism landscape drives economic development, supports small businesses and enhances quality of life.
MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:
We kindly request that members of the media confirm their attendance in advance by contacting Zach Pishock at SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.
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Sen. Drew Echols serves as a Governor’s Administration Floor Leader. He represents the 49th Senate District, which includes a large portion of Hall County. He may be reached by email at Drew.Echols@senate.ga.gov.
Senate Study Committee on Combating Chronic Absenteeism in Schools and House Study Committee on Student Attendance in PreK-12 Education to Hold Joint Meeting
ATLANTA (September 16, 2025) — On Monday, Sept. 22,2025, at 1:00 p.m., the Senate Study Committee on Combating Chronic Absenteeism in Schools, chaired by Sen. John F. Kennedy (R–Macon), and the House Study Committee on Student Attendance in PreK-12 Education, chaired by Rep. Chris Erwin (R–Homer), will hold a joint hearing.
EVENT DETAILS:
- Date: Monday, September 22, 2025
- Time: 1:00 p.m.
- Location: 341 State Capitol, 206 Washington St SW, Atlanta, GA, 30334
- This event is open to the public and will be live-streamed on the Georgia General Assembly website here.
ABOUT THE MEETING:
The Senate Study Committee on Combating Chronic Absenteeism in Schools, created through Senate Resolution 217, will examine the root causes and long-term impacts of chronic absenteeism among Georgia students.
MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:
We kindly request that members of the media confirm their attendance in advance by contacting Zach Pishock at SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.
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Sen. John F. Kennedy represents the 18th Senate District, which includes Upson, Monroe, Peach, Crawford, as well as portions of Bibb and Houston County. He may be reached at 404.656.6578 or by email at john.kennedy@senate.ga.gov.
Majority Leader Jason Anavitarte Recognizes the Start of National Hispanic Heritage Month
ATLANTA (September 15, 2025) — Today, Senate Majority Leader Jason Anavitarte (R–Dallas) issued the following statement in honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month:
“Today marks the beginning of National Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic Americans across our nation. Like millions of Hispanic Americans, I am the son of hardworking parents who instilled in me an unwavering faith and a deep belief in the American Dream.
Here in Georgia, that same spirit is alive and well in our vibrant Hispanic communities, whose dedication and accomplishments strengthen both our economy and our culture. Their story is woven into the fabric of our state, helping make Georgia the place of opportunity, prosperity, and freedom that we are proud to call home.
As we begin this month of celebration, I invite all Georgians to join me in honoring the achievements of Hispanic Americans and recognizing their vital role in shaping our shared future.”
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Sen. Jason Anavitarte serves as Senate Majority Leader. He represents the 31st Senate District, which includes Polk County and a portion of Paulding County. He may be reached via email at Jason.Anavitarte@senate.ga.gov.
For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.