Legislative Day 19 | 2026 Legislative Session | 02/17/2026 [Source] Translate

The meeting began with the Senate convening and recognizing pages from various locations in Georgia. The senator from the 6th district read the journal, which was confirmed without objection. Several Senate bills and resolutions were introduced, including Senate Bill 500 through Senate Bill 512 and Senate Resolutions 770 through 772. The first reading of House bills was conducted, with House Bill 935 through House Bill 1203 being introduced. The Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism reported on Senate Bill 463, recommending it do pass by substitute. The Senate Committee on Rules reported on Senate Resolution 744, also recommending it do pass by substitute. The Senate Committee on State and Local Government Operations reported on multiple House bills, recommending them to do pass. The Secretary read bills and resolutions for a second time, including Senate Bill 432, Senate Bill 440, Senate Bill 446, Senate Bill 462, and Senate Resolution 668. A special guest, former Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle, was acknowledged, and the morning roll call was conducted, with several senators excused without objection. The meeting included a morning devotion led by Bishop O.C. Allen, who emphasized justice, mercy, and humility in leadership. He offered a prayer for clarity, courage, compassion, and integrity among the senators. Dr. Rita Livingston was introduced as the doctor of the day, highlighting her contributions to public health and veteran services. She expressed gratitude on behalf of various medical associations for the Senate's work for the citizens of Georgia, emphasizing local action in addressing community issues. Congresswoman Lucy McGrath addressed the Senate, urging prioritization of transparency and common ground in governance, particularly in light of her advocacy for gun legislation following the loss of her son. The Senate recognized the Georgia School of Orthodontics through Senate Resolution 691 for its contributions to education and community service. Senate Resolution 779 commended the Georgia Building Authority for the restoration of the historic Georgia Senate Chamber, while Senate Resolution 778 recognized February 17, 2026, as Next Gen Youth Entrepreneurship Day at the State Capitol. A speaker shared their entrepreneurial journey and the importance of financial literacy, calling for bipartisan legislation to promote it in Georgia. Senators expressed condolences for the loss of Dr. Linda Davis and paid tribute to civil rights leader Jesse Jackson, reflecting on his impact and legacy. A former congressman emphasized the importance of public service and collective responsibility. The meeting included acknowledgments of various events, such as Golden Owls Day and Japan Day, with invitations to participate in related celebrations. Senators recognized the Lunar New Year and shared information about the Capitol's celebrations. Several speakers honored Jesse Jackson, recounting his contributions to civil rights and social justice, and underscoring the importance of continuing the fight against voter suppression. The meeting also recognized notable figures, including Elena Myers-Taylor and Lynn Swann, and concluded with announcements about upcoming events, including Japan Day at the Capitol, celebrating the longstanding relationship between Georgia and Japan. The consent calendar of privilege resolutions was adopted without objection, and the local bills consent calendar was approved. Senate Bill 452, aimed at amending employer contributions to 401(k) plans for state law enforcement officers, passed with 49 yeas and no nays. Senate Bill 143, which seeks to amend the Georgia Firefighters Pension Fund, also passed after discussions about its potential benefits and risks. Senate Bill 369 was introduced to create dropout recovery charter schools, aimed at providing alternative accountability measures for at-risk students. The bill received unanimous support and was passed. The meeting concluded with announcements regarding upcoming committee meetings and a reminder about the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus's annual Heritage Gala, with the Senate adjourned until the following Wednesday.