Georgia's 2026 legislative session is over, but the real action is just beginning. Governor Brian Kemp has 40 days (until May 12) to sign or veto the measures passed by state lawmakers. Any unsigned bills automatically become law after that deadline.
Among the most closely watched bills is House Bill 369, which would make certain elected positions in five metro Atlanta counties nonpartisan, including the office of district attorney. Cobb County DA Sonya Allen has promised to join a lawsuit challenging the legislation if Kemp signs it.
The session also produced education bills heading to Kemp's desk, including a high school cell phone ban, need-based scholarship expansion, and literacy funding. A bill allowing Georgians to get birth control directly from pharmacists is also awaiting the governor's signature.
Kemp acknowledged his power in his final term during the State of the State address: "For those who may think I'm a lame duck, I still have a big red pen." Last year he vetoed seven bills.
