March 4, 2025 Edition

There really aren’t words to describe the momentum behind principled conservatism at the Georgia Capitol. We continue to see a bold shift in our direction, and we are grateful for you, for our legislative allies, and for the mercies the Lord continues to show. Now, it’s “crunch time.” 

Crossover Day is this Thursday, March 6th—the key deadline for bills to pass their Chamber of origin. What happens this week will determine the potential future of key legislation for the rest of the session. 

(Though, please note, if a bill does not pass, it does not mean that the issue is done. There are plenty of mechanisms to keep up the fight for good legislation or even for our opponents to revive bad ideas. Gambling, notably, is never truly dead until “Sine Die,” and we must always stay alert - both to leverage the right opportunities and to ensure we keep up the push against what we oppose.)

We’re working around the clock to advance our key priorities and pro-family policies, meeting with legislators, pushing to advance our remaining bills out of committees holding their final meetings this week, and navigating the final hurdles to keep our priorities moving forward. Every conversation, every decision, and every vote matters.

Your engagement and prayers are making an impact. We remain committed to championing the values that matter most—securing victories and creating lasting change.

See below for the latest updates:

Senate Votes to Protect Children from Puberty Blockers

For the second consecutive year, Sen. Ben Watson has led the charge to protect children from the dangers of puberty blockers for the purpose of “gender transitioning.” 

Study after study shows that these chemicals cause disastrous harm for children and lead to a life of despair and pain. His authorship of SB 30 - which the Senate has now passed in back-to-back years - is a critical step toward strengthening Georgia’s relatively weak child protection laws.

We are grateful for the leadership of Sen. Watson, LG Burt Jones, and the bipartisan majority that voted for this legislation. It is time to get this across the finish line in the House and to the Governor’s Desk!

RFRA (SB 36) on the Senate Floor Today

Today, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA), SB 36, will be on the Senate floor for a vote. This will be the second consecutive year that the Senate - thanks to Lt. Governor Burt Jones - has taken action on this legislation. Sen. Ed Setzler has been a tireless sponsor and advocate for the people of faith.

Georgia remains the only state within the footprint of the Southeastern Conference without a state-level RFRA, and it is among a shrinking minority nationally - joining blue states like Oregon, Hawaii, and Vermont - without these basic protections.

We are working to ensure passage today before turning our full attention to the House, where we are counting on leadership to get this done before Sine Die.

Watch today’s Senate Floor Session at: https://www.legis.ga.gov/schedule/senate/AQIARgAAA6nWrITxUepClGGA2bgmimX9GGA2by4HAGeQLC1kSDdIixjC7EHFmfIAAAJaYgAAAJVi9mcGGA2b4qFNnaWZAgEUQssAAAA11TthAAAALgAAA6nWrITxUepClGGA2bgmimX9GGA2by4BAGeQLC1kSDdIixjC7EHFmfIAAAJaYgAAAA%3D%3D 

See our full committee testimony from Thursday at: https://vimeo.com/showcase/8821960/video/1060997679 (Skip to 25:40 for SB 36)

See bill language at: https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/69556 

The Riley Gaines Act (HB 267) Passes House with Bipartisan Support

Last week, we sent an extensive update on the passage of HB 267, “The Riley Gaines Act,” sponsored by Rep. Josh Bonner and the Senate counterpart on the issue, SB 1, by Sen. Greg Dolezal.

The bill has received extensive coverage locally (https://foxchattanooga.com/news/local/georgia-house-keeps-hate-crimes-protection-as-it-seeks-to-restrict-transgender-sports-part) and around the country.

Dialogue continues to ensure the best language is ultimately signed into law. We appreciate both Chambers for passing these bills - which all Republicans and five Democrats voted for.

Watch full floor debate at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKttYmrdcU8&t=998s  (Skip to 2:03:20) See bill language at: https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/69927

HB 171 Passes the House: A Critical Step in Protecting Minors

We are pleased to share that HB 171, sponsored by Representative Brad Thomas, has successfully passed the House unanimously on Wednesday, February 26th! This legislation takes a vital step in protecting minors from the growing danger of AI-generated obscene content. As technology evolves, it is essential that Georgia's laws remain ahead of emerging threats to safeguard our children.

Thanks to the leadership of Representative Thomas, we are grateful that this bill updates our code to address this new form of exploitation. Notably, Rep. Thomas and Rep. Todd Jones have led numerous bills originating in the House to combat the misuse of AI in recent years, and we are honored to partner with them.

Watch Full Floor Debate: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5sf1KufF1A&t=802s (Skip to 2:57:35) See bill language at: https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/69648 

SB 248: Safeguarding Innocence in Education Introduced

This past week, SB 248, our "Safeguarding Innocence in Education" bill, sponsored by Senator Clint Dixon, was introduced. This bill removes harmful materials from school libraries, requires parental consent for access to sensitive content, and refocuses sex education on abstinence while removing it from elementary schools, 

SB 248 prioritizes the well-being of children across our state.  The bill also prevents schools from implementing pronoun or compelled speech policies and limits discussions on sexual orientation and gender identity in classrooms, ensuring that our children are not subjected to radical gender ideology. If passed, this would be the most comprehensive reform of public education we’ve seen in Georgia - removing decades of woke encroachment upon our classrooms.

This is the last priority bill of ours to be introduced this session, and we are grateful for the leadership of our friend Sen. Dixon. We are cautiously hopeful that we can pass the bill before Crossover, but, either way, the effort to safeguard Georgia’s children will continue.

See bill language at:https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70774

Georgia “DOGE” (SB 28) Passes Senate

On February 24, the Senate passed SB 28 with a 33-21 vote, signaling widespread support for reducing the burdensome regulatory landscape that often stifles small businesses and limits economic opportunity. This bill requires state agencies to regularly review regulations, eliminate outdated or overly complex rules, and prioritize measures that reduce compliance costs and allow businesses to thrive. It empowers lawmakers to focus on policies that improve efficiency and create a more business-friendly environment.

The passage of SB 28 marks a critical moment in Georgia’s regulatory reform efforts, sending a clear message that Georgia is committed to being a state that fosters economic opportunity and reduces obstacles to success. This bill is an important part of our broader push to create a more business-friendly environment where Georgians can flourish. With its passage, we look forward to seeing how SB 28 will continue to shape Georgia’s regulatory landscape and create lasting benefits for entrepreneurs and the economy at large.

Watch Full Floor Debate:  https://vimeo.com/showcase/9076378?video=1059085812 (Skip to 1:48:30) See bill language at: https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/69523 

The 2025 Fight Against Gambling

Once again, we face an extensive and well-funded push to expand gambling. So far, we are pleased by an early victory for our side.

SR 131, sponsored by Senator Carden Summers, would allow a constitutional amendment legalizing sports betting and casinos to be placed on the ballot and voted on in the next election. This Resolution was heard on Thursday, February 27th, and with bipartisan votes, it failed by a vote of 9-2. 

HR 450, a proposed constitutional amendment, and HB 686, the companion bill to legalize mobile sports betting in Georgia, were both filed this week. 

If passed, HR 450 would require approval by Georgia voters to amend the state constitution, while HB 686 outlines the framework for regulating mobile sports betting. We remain cautious about the broader social implications of such legislation, particularly the impact on families and communities. As these bills move forward, we will continue to advocate against gambling and prioritize the well-being of Georgians.

As stated earlier, we know that the battle to expand gambling will likely extend all the way up to Sine Die. We will be there, to oppose, every step of the way.

See language for HR 450 and HB 686: https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/71020 (HR 450); https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/71019 (HB 686)

Georgia Promise Scholarship Application Window OPENS

Last year, we celebrated a major victory with the passage of SB 233, a piece of legislation that was a crucial step forward for education reform in Georgia. Our team worked tirelessly to advocate for this bill, which has made it possible for more families to access better educational opportunities for their children. 

The passage of SB 233 was not just a legislative win; it was a direct result of our continued commitment to empowering parents and giving them the tools they need to ensure their children receive a high-quality education. Well, we’re excited to announce that the Georgia Promise Scholarship program has opened its first application window from March 1 (9AM EST) to April 15, 2025!! 

Families who are accepted will receive up to $6,500 per year to help cover approved education expenses for the 2025-2026 school year. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this program will have on children across Georgia, empowering families to choose the education that best suits their needs and helping every child thrive.

For more information visit: https://mygeorgiapromise.org/

Expansion of Georgia Promise Scholarship Act (SB 152) Passes Senate

On that note, SB 152, sponsored by Senator Greg Dolezal - the original and tireless author of the largest expansion of education freedom ever seen in Georgia - passed the Senate on Friday, February 28th. This bill takes a step forward in expanding access to the Georgia Promise Scholarship program, particularly for children of foster parents. 

With an effective date of July 1, 2025, SB 152 further demonstrates our commitment to ensuring all children, regardless of their background or circumstances, have access to the educational opportunities that best serve their needs. As the sponsor of the bill stated in the well, “Senate Bill 152 is a way to say thank you and acknowledge the work of our foster families in Georgia. . . this is an important step to ensure that those people who take care of the most vulnerable in our population have an additional incentive to do so.” 

Watch Full Floor Debate: https://vimeo.com/showcase/9076378?video=1060956751 (Skip 1:49:40) See bill language at: https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70245 

Frontline with Governor Kemp

Last week, we had the privilege of meeting with Governor Brian Kemp, First Lady Marty Kemp, and the great team in the Governor’s Office.  to discuss our key legislative priorities. We focused on the urgent need for Georgia to pass the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA), modeled after the federal RFRA, to provide robust protections for religious liberty across our state. 

Additionally, we discussed other priorities - both in support and opposition - and were grateful to be able to hear directly from the Governor as well. We are blessed by his friendship and his faithfulness to the calling God has placed on him as he leads our state.

SB 79, “Fentanyl Eradication and Removal Act” (FEAR), Passes Senate 

SB 79, sponsored by Senator Russ Goodman and prioritized by Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, passed the Senate on Wednesday with a strong vote of 50-3. With fentanyl often mixed into counterfeit pills and street drugs, leading to a surge in overdose deaths, SB 79 will help to protect Georgia families by taking stronger action against the trafficking and distribution of this deadly substance. 

This bill is currently assigned to the House Judiciary Non-Civil committee and awaiting a hearing. 

Watch Floor Debate at: https://vimeo.com/showcase/9076378?video=1059819837 (Skip to 3:45:06) 

See bill language at: https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/69811

Legislative Quick Updates: 

HB 307 - Sponsored by Representative Bethany Ballard aims to help ensure all children in Georgia can read at grade level, especially those who are at risk or have characteristics of dyslexia. It requires schools to create support plans for students at risk of reading failure, ensures both schools and the state provide information about dyslexia, and removes ineffective teaching methods. This bill passed the House 166-0 with bipartisan support on Friday. 

HB 133 - “Student Character Development Act” Sponsored by Representative David Clark reinforces K-12 students' constitutional right to participate in Release Time Instruction—privately funded religious education that takes place off school property with parental consent. On Thursday, HB 133 was heard in the House Education Committee and tabled for further policy work. We are actively pushing for the bill to be heard again next week before the crossover deadline to ensure this important protection moves forward.

Watch Full Committee at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=axvsgPW8fnI&t=676s See bill language at: https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/69532 

HB 253 - Sponsored by Representative David Clark, passed the House 166-0 on Wednesday. Ethan’s Law (HB 253) ensures that Georgia courts cannot force children into certain family reunification programs, such as camps or workshops, during custody or dependency cases. It specifically bans programs that separate children from their parents against court orders, use forceful or coercive transportation, require no-contact periods, or send children out of state. 

Watch Full Floor Debate: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5sf1KufF1A&t=802s (Skip to 2:16:50) See bill language at: https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/69866 

SB 185 - Sponsored by Senator Randy Robertson prohibits the use of state funds for inmates who want sex reassignment surgeries, hormone replacement therapies, and cosmetic procedures aimed at altering sexual characteristics. The bill excludes medically necessary treatments, such as those for individuals with disorders of sex development or those already undergoing hormone therapy. SB 185 passed the Senate Public Safety Committee on February 24th. 

ALL FRONTLINE ENDORSED BILLS (to date):

SB 1 - “Fair and Safe Athletic Opportunities Act” sponsored by Sen. Greg Dolezal. (Passed Senate) 

SB 9 - “Ensuring Accountability for Illegal AI Activities Act” sponsored by Sen. John Albers (Passed Senate Judiciary Committee)

SB 17 - “Ricky and Alyssa's Law” sponsored by Sen. Jason Anavitarte (Passed Senate Education and Youth Committee) 

SB 21 - Tightens up illegal immigration enforcement sponsored by Sen. Blake Tillery (Passed Senate)

SB 22 - Improves government transparency and education accountability sponsored by Sen. Blake Tillery (Passed Senate Education & Youth Committee)

SB 28 - “Red Tape Rollback Act of 2025” sponsored by Sen. Greg Dolezal (Passed Senate)

SB 30 - Prohibits the use of hormone treatments in minors for purposes of gender transition, sponsored by Sen. Ben Watson (Passed Senate)

SB 36 - Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA), sponsored by Sen. Ed Setzler (Senate Vote Today)

SB 39 - Prevents tax payer dollars from funding gender affirming surgeries, sponsored by Sen. Blake Tillery (Passed Senate)

SB 42 - Closes loophole on human trafficking convictions, sponsored by Sen. Bo Hatchett (Passed Senate)

SB 57 - The “Freedom of Speech and Belief Act” sponsored by Sen. Blake Tillery (Passed Senate Judiciary Committee)

SB 72 - “Hope for Georgia Patients Act" sponsored by Sen. Matt Brass (Passed Senate)

SB 74 - Eliminating protection for libraries when dealing with harmful materials sponsored by Sen. Max Burns (Passed Senate Education & Youth Committee)

SB 79 - “Fentanyl Eradication and Removal Act" sponsored by Sen. Russ Goodman (Passed Senate; Awaiting House Judiciary Non-Civil Committee Approval)

SB 89 - Childcare tax credit sponsored Sen. Brian Strickland (Passed Senate)

SB 91 - Addressing conflicts of interest in the management of pharmacy benefits sponsored by Sen. Blake Tillery (Passed Senate Health and Human Services Committee)

SB 102 - Dogfighting restrictions sponsored by Sen. Randy Robertson (Passed Senate) 

SB 120 - Eliminating state-funded DEI initiatives at public educational institutions sponsored by Sen. Marty Harbin (Awaiting Senate Higher Education Committee Approval)

SB 123 - Addresses compulsory attendance sponsored by Senator John F. Kennedy (Passed Senate)

SB 126 - Lowering the age of eligibility for enrollment in completion special schools sponsored by Senator Clint Dixon (Passed Senate Education & Youth Committee) 

SB 152 - “Georgia Promise Scholarship Act” eligibility expansion sponsored by Sen. Greg Dolezal (Passed Senate)

SB 154 - Removes references to the United States Department of Education from the Official Code of Georgia sponsored by Sen. Bo Hatchett (Awaiting Senate Floor Vote)

SB 175 - Prohibit ranked choice voting sponsored by Sen. Randy Robertson (Passed the Senate)

SB 185 - Prohibit the use of state funds or resources for gender-reassignment treatments for state inmates sponsored by Sen. Randy Robertson (Passed Senate Public Safety Committee)

SB 254 - Delta-9-THC limitations sponsored by Sen. Bill Cowsert (Passed Senate Regulated Industries and Utilities Committee)

HB 133 - “Student Character Development Act” sponsored by Rep. David Clark (Awaiting House Education Committee Approval)

HB 150 - “Combating Threats from Foreign Countries of Concern Act of 2025" sponsored by Rep. Tim Fleming (Passed House Higher Education Committee)

HB 171 - Closing loophole on distributing AI obscene material depicting a child sponsored by Rep. Brad Thomas (Passed House)

HB 192 - Adding high-demand career programs to the State Board of Education’s curriculum sponsored by Rep. Matt Gambill (Passed House)

HB 205 - Government drone regulation and cybersecurity protection sponsored by Rep. David Clark (Passed House) 

HB 217 - Establishing the Dual Achievement Program as a permanent state initiative sponsored by Rep. Soo Hong (Recommitted to House Higher Education Committee)

HB 253 - “Ethan’s Law” sponsored by Rep. David Clark (Passed House)

HB 260 - Increasing the statewide homestead exemption from property taxes for state, county, and certain school purposes from $2,000 to $5,000 sponsored by Rep. Matt Reeves (Awaiting House Ways & Means Committee Approval)

HB 267 - The “Riley Gaines Act” sponsored by Rep. Josh Bonner (Passed House) 

HB 307 - A children’s literacy bill sponsored by Rep. Bethany Ballard (Passed House)

HB 350 - Baby Box bill sponsored by Rep. Mike Cameron (Passed House Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee) 

If you are interested in testifying or joining our Legislative Advocacy Team please reply to this email! 

Also, for legislators and allies, please contact me to let me know if you request Frontline’s endorsement for a particular piece of legislation. While we monitor all bills that have been introduced, there may be legislation that we are open to supporting that are not currently on our list.

National News: DOGE and Stacey Abrams – A $2 Billion Discovery

In a surprising turn of events, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has uncovered a significant financial discovery involving political figure Stacey Abrams. According to DOGE, $2 billion in funds have recently been traced from the Biden administration's slush fund to Abrams' associated organizations. 

We are grateful that the Georgia State Senate has already announced an investigation to the activities of Abrams’ network.

A Message from Chris Carr

A couple of weeks ago, we received a message from Attorney General Chris Carr regarding his efforts to fight some of the remaining wokeness from the Biden regime. We are grateful for his fight for Georgia families!

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AqHk7sAmB/?mibextid=wwXIfr