COLUMN: Sen. Sheikh Rahman: The 2025 Legislative Session is Underway

By: Sen. Sheikh Rahman (D - Lawrenceville)

The 2025 Legislative Session is officially underway! On Monday, January 13, the Georgia General Assembly reconvened under the Gold Dome, marking the start of this year's legislative session and the beginning of a new biennium. Over the next 40 legislative days, I'm committed to fighting for policies that create a more equitable and inclusive Georgia for all its residents.

I am honored to continue serving on the Senate Committees on Appropriations, Economic Development and Tourism, Government Oversight, Natural Resources and the Environment and Urban Affairs. On these committees, we will address pressing issues such as budget allocation, environmental concerns and exactly how our state should proceed with addressing its growing, diverse population.

The first week of a new biennium is always filled with important events and meaningful connections. This week was no exception, with highlights including the annual Eggs & Issues event and the Governor's "State of the State" address. These events offered the General Assembly several perspectives on issues of Georgia's small and large businesses, citizen concerns and the priorities of our state and local public institutions. These gatherings remind us of the collaborative spirit needed to address our communities' challenges.

On Thursday, Governor Brian P. Kemp delivered his annual "State of the State address" to a joint session of the Senate and House chambers. While I welcome some of his proposals, including pay raises for teachers, state employees, and first responders and efforts to strengthen our healthcare workforce, I believe we must go further. We must ensure every Georgian has access to affordable healthcare, expand opportunities for quality public education, invest in renewable energy solutions, and tackle the growing need for affordable housing across the state. These priorities are essential for creating a Georgia where every family can thrive.

As we move into our second week-commonly known as Budget Week-the focus will shift to the state's financial priorities. Beginning Tuesday, leaders from state agencies will present their budgetary needs to the General Assembly. Budget Week is not just about numbers; it's about values. This is our chance to advocate for funding that reflects the needs of working families, invests in underserved communities, and ensures every Georgian has the resources they need to build a better future.

As a member of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, I am committed to working with my Senate colleagues to ensure that the values and priorities of Georgia's 5th Senate District are reflected in our state budget. Senate District 5 is rapidly growing, and with that comes a need for budgets and allocations that address shifting demands. My caucus colleagues and I will continue to advocate for the resources our districts need to support our expanding population and foster progress.

I encourage students between 12 and 18 to apply for a day as a Senate Page. Participants in the Page Program are granted the opportunity to join the Senate for a day at the State Capitol, during which they participate in, observe, and learn about the legislative process. This program is truly excellent, and I encourage my constituents to participate. Interested students may apply for the program by clicking here.

Please never hesitate to contact my office with any questions or concerns. Thank you for trusting me to represent you under the Gold Dome. Your voice matters, and I encourage you to share your ideas and concerns as we work together to build a stronger, fairer Georgia.

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Senator Sheikh Rahman represents the 5^th Senate District which includes portions of Lawrenceville, Norcross, Duluth, Tucker and Lilburn in Gwinnett County. He may be reached at 404.463.5261 or by email at [email protected].

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