Senator John Albers Highlights Life-Saving Impact of Organ Transport Legislation Signed into Law in May

ATLANTA (June 4, 2025) — Today, Sen. John Albers (R–Roswell) recognized the life-saving impact of legislation he authored earlier this year, Senate Bill 58, the Georgia Transporting Life-Saving Organs and Personnel Act, which was signed into law by Governor Brian P. Kemp on May 9, 2025.

The measure creates a legal framework for licensing and operating emergency organ transport vehicles in Georgia, formally recognizing them as ambulance services and authorizing their use on public roads during time-sensitive transplant procedures. The legislation ensures these vehicles can move efficiently and safely without regulatory delays, removing bureaucratic barriers that could otherwise cost lives.

“This legislation means the world to me—not just as a lawmaker, but as a father,” said Sen. Albers. “After donating a Kidney to my son in 2021 I understand and know the urgency that families feel in those moments. When a match is found, every second counts. This law gives patients and medical teams a better chance to succeed.”

SB 58 exempts emergency organ transport vehicles from certain regulatory hurdles such as the Emergency Medical Systems Communications (EMSC) Program and medical adviser requirements. It also ensures appropriate insurance coverage and compliance with Department of Public Health standards, while streamlining coordination between healthcare providers and emergency responders.

“By treating these specialized vehicles as essential emergency services, we are modernizing our healthcare system in a meaningful way,” Sen. Albers added. “Whether it’s a kidney, liver, heart with a team of surgeons rushing to save a life, Georgia now ensures that every tool necessary for an organ transplant has a clear and direct path to where it’s needed most.”

Sen. Albers, Chairman of the Senate Public Safety Committee, has consistently advocated for public safety and healthcare reforms that put people first. SB 58 is a testament to his commitment to addressing real-world challenges with practical solutions and to his deep personal connection to the issue of organ donation. Senator Albers worked with the GA Department of Public Safety, “NORA” Nationwide Organ Recovery Transport Alliance, LifeLink of Georgia, and the Georgia Transplant Foundation to make this a reality.

The law took effect immediately upon its signing in May. Read more about the bill here.

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Sen. John Albers serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Safety. He represents the 56th Senate District, which includes portions of Cherokee, Cobb and Fulton County. He may be reached at his office at 404.463.8055 or by email at John.Albers@senate.ga.gov.

For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

Sen. Ed Harbison Welcomes WHINSEC Program Members to Georgia State Capitol

ATLANTA (May 30, 2025) — Today, Sen. Ed Harbison (D–Columbus) welcomed members of the Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation (WHINSEC) to the Georgia State Capitol. The visit highlighted the strong partnership between the state of Georgia and WHINSEC’s international mission to advance leadership, uphold ethics and foster regional cooperation.

As part of their professional development, WHINSEC participants visited the Capitol to learn more about Georgia’s legislative process and the role of state government in supporting public institutions and international engagement.

“Georgia is proud to play a vital role in shaping leaders committed to peace, integrity and democratic values. WHINSEC is more than a training institute. It is where the next generation of global leaders is developed,” said Sen. Harbison. “As a veteran and lifelong public servant, I have seen firsthand the importance of investing in programs that enhance security and promote human rights and shared responsibility. WHINSEC reflects the very best of what Georgia has to offer: world-class training, strong civic principles and a deep respect for service. The men and women who pass through this program carry those lessons back to their home countries, strengthening the bonds we share across the Western Hemisphere. I was honored to welcome them to our Capitol and look forward to the positive impact they will make for years to come.”

WHINSEC, based at Fort Benning in Columbus, Georgia, brings together military, civilian and law enforcement personnel across the Americas for high-level training focused on leadership, ethics and mutual respect. The Capitol visit underscores Georgia’s unique position as a host and a partner in WHINSEC’s efforts to promote regional security and cross-cultural understanding.

For more information on WHINSEC and its programs, visit WHINSEC’s official website.

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Sen. Ed Harbison serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on State Institutions and Property. He represents the 15th Senate District, which includes Chattahoochee, Macon, Marion, Schley, Talbot and Taylor counties, as well as a portion of Muscogee County. He may be reached at 404.656.0074 or via email at ed.harbison@senate.ga.gov.

For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

Minority Leader Harold Jones II and Sen. Nabilah Islam Parkes to Hold Press Conference on State of Georgia’s Reproductive Freedom

ATLANTA (May 28, 2025) — Tomorrow, Minority Leader Sen. Harold Jones II (D–Augusta) and Sen. Nabilah Islam Parkes (D–Duluth) will hold a press conference alongside community advocates to address women’s access to medical care under Georgia’s abortion law.

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