We have officially surpassed Crossover Day—the final day for bills to pass out of their original chamber and remain eligible to become law before the session concludes. In the Senate alone, we passed 84 pieces of legislation, advancing key priorities for Georgia families, students, small businesses, and law enforcement. With the session winding down, our focus is working with the House to finalize these bills.

Every parent deserves peace of mind knowing their child is safe at school. That is why Senate Republicans have made school safety a top priority by taking proactive steps to protect students and educators. SB 17 requires all schools to install mobile panic alert systems and provide school mapping data to law enforcement. In an emergency, every second counts. By reducing response times and equipping first responders with better information, we can help prevent tragedies and save lives. SB 61 ensures that juveniles charged with attempted murder or making terroristic threats against a school are prosecuted as adults. We cannot afford to treat these serious crimes lightly.

Access to quality education is the foundation of success. That is why Senate Republicans are expanding opportunities for students of all backgrounds. I proudly authored SB 85, the Georgia Foster Care Scholarship Act. This legislation provides additional financial aid for foster youth seeking higher education by providing foster children the resources to build a bright future. Additionally, SB 63, guarantees that homeschooled students can access standardized tests such as the PSAT, SAT, ACT, and Advanced Placement exams. SB 126 lowers the eligibility age for students to enroll in a completion special school from 18 to 16 years old. Some students require an alternative pathway to graduation, and this bill allows them to earn their diplomas at their own pace.

I also authored SB 259, known as Ridge’s Law, which grants parents facing allegations of child abuse or neglect the right to seek a second medical opinion before losing custody of their child. Unfortunately, in the past, families have been unjustly separated due to misdiagnosed medical conditions of their children. Passing this bill has been one of my main priorities after working with constituents to navigate this devastating tragedy.

Last week, the Senate approved the House’s amendments to the amended Fiscal Year 2025 budget. This budget increases funding for the Department of Corrections to support law enforcement and public safety while maintaining resources for hurricane relief efforts. Last Thursday, Governor Brian P. Kemp signed the amended budget.

As we enter the final stretch of the legislative session, I encourage you to reach out with any questions, concerns, or input. It is an honor to serve you under the Gold Dome. I remain committed to advancing legislation that strengthens our communities, upholds our values, and ensures a brighter future for all Georgians.