Most new laws the General Assembly enacted this year took effect in July. But some significant legislation or portions of legislation lawmakers passed pertaining to elections, taxes, and health care don't become operative until New Year's Day.
The list includes Senate Bill 189, a controversial election reform measure the legislature's Republican majorities passed along party lines. While most of the 24-page bill took effect in July, three of its provisions don't kick in until Jan. 1.
Two tax measures about to take effect will provide both property tax relief and greater accountability surrounding the various tax incentives the state offers businesses as bait to lure jobs to Georgia.
Georgia voters ratified an amendment to the state constitution last month with 63% of the vote that prohibits local governments from raising residential property assessments in a given year by more than the annual rate of inflation, even if a home's market value has gone up more.
Cities, counties and school districts will be allowed to opt out of the measure if they choose.
However, any local government that wishes to take that step will be required to file its intent to do so with the Georgia secretary of state's office by March 1 and hold at least three public hearings.
The Tax Expenditures Transparency Act of 2024 will require the Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts to complete at least 12 analyses each year of state income tax credits or sales tax exemptions.
One provision tucked inside a 40-page bill reforming Georgia's certificate of need law governing hospital construction and new health-care services is aimed at helping rural hospitals keep their doors open. Among other things, House Bill 1339 will raise the annual cap on the state’s rural hospital tax credit from $75 million to $100 million, starting Jan. 1.
House Bill 880, which passed the Georgia House and Senate unanimously, will allow military spouses to use an existing professional license 'in good standing' from another state to obtain a license in Georgia. Supporters said making it easier for military spouses to get jobs in Georgia could help put a dent in the state's nursing shortage.
Another measure that made it through the General Assembly without a single “no” vote - House Bill 451 will require insurance companies to cover mental-health services for first responders suffering post-traumatic stress disorder from being exposed to traumatic events in the line of duty.
