COLUMN: Sen. Mike Hodges: Week One Under the Gold Dome

By: Sen. Mike Hodges (R-Brunswick)

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.

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 those effected 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.

While the first week has been productive, much work remains. Among the most pressing issues is supporting recovery efforts in communities Georgia 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 this week, 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 am honored to announce my appointment as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Reapportionment and Redistricting. I am also pleased to announce my appointment as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Banking and Financial Institutions. I will also serve as an Ex-Officio member of the Senate Committees on Health and Human Services and Economic Development and Tourism and as a member of the Senate Committees on Insurance and Labor and Finance, respectively.

As a Brunswick native, I understand our community's challenges regarding hurricanes and the barriers they create to obtaining proper, comprehensive insurance coverage. This issue is why I value my position on the Senate Committee on Insurance and Labor so highly and why I will continue to use it to represent the voices of Senate District 3 and advocate for the insurance needs of all Georgians, regardless of geography. Southeast Georgia is deeply tied to the economic impact of tourism, driven by our historic cities, townships and beautiful coastlines. I am committed to ensuring that the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism recognizes the immense economic and cultural value our district contributes to the state. These committee appointments and any legislation I introduce this session reflect my unwavering dedication to the citizens of Senate District 3.

On another note, I want to let my constituents between the ages of 12 and 18 know about the opportunity to be a Senate Page for a day during the Legislative Session. This program allows students to actively participate in the legislative process at our State Capitol for a day and is an excellent opportunity to observe and learn about state government. Interested students may apply for the program by clicking here.

It is an honor to serve the people of the 3^rd 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.

# # # #