A new report from American Rivers puts a spotlight on the Suwannee River, ranking it among the most endangered rivers in the country. Experts warn that rising pollution levels and weakening water flow could have long-term impacts on ecosystems and drinking water across state lines.

We also look at a looming housing issue as emergency rental assistance is set to expire for hundreds of Georgians. Advocates say many families may struggle to relocate, even as the state works to transition recipients onto waitlists for longer-term support.

Plus, a legal battle in rural Georgia: the Georgia Court of Appeals has upheld a decision allowing a private railroad company to use eminent domain in Sparta. Property owners are pushing back, with plans to appeal to a higher court.

And in weather, the National Weather Service says dry conditions will continue to fuel drought concerns and elevate fire risk this week, though some relief could be on the horizon. Temperatures are also on a rollercoaster, dipping early before climbing back into the high 80s.

Finally, bipartisan opposition is growing against a controversial elections bill, as critics urge Brian Kemp to veto legislation that would make certain local races nonpartisan in several metro Atlanta counties. 

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A bipartisan bill aimed at addressing the state’s rural doctor shortage is now on Governor Brian Kemp’s desk. Supporters say the measure could bring internationally trained physicians into underserved communities.

We also cover a new tuition increase across the University System of Georgia, the upcoming leadership transition as Chancellor Sonny Perdue announces his retirement, and a closely watched Democratic gubernatorial debate featuring Michael Thurmond, Keisha Lance Bottoms, and Geoff Duncan.

Plus, legal trouble at the High Museum of Art, and a massive $1.3 billion overhaul approved for the Fulton County Commission jail system.

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Georgia NOW dives into a growing food insecurity crisis across South Georgia, where counties below the “gnat line” are facing hunger rates higher than the national average. Food banks are seeing demand surge while donations continue to shrink. 

Plus, a bipartisan bill aimed at reining in homeowners’ associations is now headed to Governor Brian Kemp. The measure would make it harder for HOAs to foreclose on residents and create a new hearing process to resolve disputes outside of costly court battles.

Also, a legal challenge could shake up a key Public Service Commission race, Georgia Equality rolls out its first round of 2026 endorsements, and Vice President JD Vance’s visit to Athens draws a sparse crowd and sharp criticism.

And in last but not least in today's episode: efforts to expand community solar in Georgia stall at the State Capitol, leaving advocates frustrated and consumers without cheaper renewable energy options.

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North Georgia’s alpine town of Helen draws millions each year, but when the Oktoberfest crowds fade, it’s the locals who keep the town alive. Residents step in during the slower months to support small businesses, carrying forward a long-standing spirit of resilience that has defined the community for decades.

Meanwhile, new data shows the cost of living in Georgia is climbing fast. At the same time, the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport continues to dominate globally, once again ranking as the world’s busiest airport after serving more than 106 million passengers in 2025. Economic development is also in focus, as Prime Inc. plans a major expansion in Spaulding County—bringing new jobs and a significant investment to the region.

And in energy, a growing push for “plug-in solar” could make renewable power more accessible, especially for renters. While the technology is gaining traction in places like California and Europe, efforts to expand it in Georgia have stalled amid policy hurdles and debate over safety and utility impacts.

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Dry, dangerous conditions are gripping Georgia this week, as heat, wind, and drought combine to raise wildfire risks across the state. 

Meanwhile, a major report out of Fulton County is shedding new light on the lasting impact of slavery and Jim Crow. The county’s Reparations Task Force estimates that as much as $900 billion in stolen labor can be tied to a single decade of slavery. 

Federal authorities are also sounding the alarm about a disturbing online threat. Investigators say a group known as “764” is targeting children, with activity increasing in Atlanta. 

And despite policy shifts and market uncertainty, Georgia’s clean energy sector continues to show resilience. But experts warn that recent project cancellations and reduced investment signal a slowdown that could impact future growth.

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From building the next generation of health advocates to tracking Georgia’s shifting energy landscape, this episode covers the stories shaping communities across the state.

A Georgia nonprofit, BLKHLTH, is celebrating a decade of impact as it trains young adults to become leaders in public health. Through its CARES fellowship, students like those at Morehouse School of Medicine are gaining real-world experience in policy and advocacy.

Plus, a new agritourism map is making it easier to explore Georgia’s farms, state tax revenues are on the rise, and a major federal operation led by the U.S. Marshals Service results in dozens of arrests across metro Atlanta.

And in a deeper dive, we break down how changes in federal policy, decisions by the Georgia Public Service Commission, and the rapid growth of data centers are reshaping Georgia’s clean energy future. Advocates from groups like the Georgia Sierra Club warn about rising costs and fossil fuel reliance, while companies like Georgia Power face increasing scrutiny over who ultimately pays the price.

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Georgia regulators are opening the door to a new kind of clean energy—and it could change how major companies power the grid.

Plus, the race for Georgia governor is starting to take shape. Insurance Commissioner John King is throwing his support behind Republican candidate Rick Jackson, passing over several other high-profile statewide contenders. 

And in South Georgia, state leaders are investing in agriculture. A new Georgia Grown Resource Center is now open in Albany—the second of nine planned statewide—aimed at helping farmers and food producers expand their reach and grow their businesses.

We’ll also tell you why airline passengers may soon be paying more to check their bags, as Delta and Southwest raise fees.

And a controversial decision in Coweta County: commissioners have approved a massive $17 billion data center campus despite strong pushback from residents concerned about environmental impacts and the loss of conservation land.

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Georgia voters turned out for a closely watched special election in the state’s 14th Congressional District. Nearly 130,000 ballots were cast, with Republican Clay Fuller defeating Democrat Shawn Harris with about 56% of the vote.

Meanwhile, a coalition of midwives is suing the state of Georgia, arguing that restrictive laws are worsening access to maternity care. 

In Atlanta, leaders are celebrating a new investment in second chances. The historic Odd Fellows building has been transformed into Georgia Works Village, a program offering housing, job training, and counseling for men working to rebuild their lives. 

Plus, Atlanta Pride is now accepting nominations for its 2026 Grand Marshals, honoring individuals and groups uplifting the LGBTQIA+ community. And a bill aimed at improving care for sickle cell patients is headed to Governor Brian Kemp’s desk, as lawmakers push to close critical gaps in treatment.

Tune in 24/7 to Georgia NOW. Grab the app or listen online at georgianow.com — and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share Georgia NOW News wherever you get your podcasts.

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Georgia’s political spotlight is intensifying as a major Republican super PAC makes a massive early move in the state’s U.S. Senate race. As Republicans battle it out in a crowded primary, Ossoff is working to solidify Democratic support with a message focused on voting rights and government accountability.

Plus, three Georgia universities are gaining national recognition. Georgia Tech, Georgia State, and Mercer University all climbed in the latest U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools rankings, with standout performances in engineering, public affairs, healthcare law, and primary care training.

Also in this episode, new research from the University of Georgia raises concerns about kids and social media. 

In housing news, Atlanta is emerging as one of the top cities in the country for first-time homebuyers, thanks to relatively affordable rent and a strong supply of attainable homes.

Finally, city leaders are responding to tragedy after a deadly shooting at Piedmont Park. Atlanta’s mayor is now offering a reward for information as police continue investigating the killing of a teenage girl and the injury of another.

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Georgia politics, clean transportation, public health, and election logistics all intersect in today’s episode — with major developments that could shape the state’s future.

The race for lieutenant governor is taking center stage, with a crowded field made up largely of current and former lawmakers. The contest has already turned contentious, as one candidate’s controversial campaign ad prompted state Senator Nabilah Parkes to jump into the race, framing her campaign as a response to divisive rhetoric. With the lieutenant governor wielding significant power over the state Senate, this race could have far-reaching implications for Georgia’s political direction.

Meanwhile, Georgia is emerging as a national leader in zero-emission truck adoption, ranking fifth in the country when adjusted for market size. 

Efforts to combat the opioid crisis are also moving forward, as the Georgia Opioid Crisis Abatement Trust prepares to open a new round of grant funding later this month. 

In other public health news, the CDC has paused dozens of lab tests in what officials describe as a routine review — though the scale of the move is raising questions.

And although the legislative session has ended, Georgia lawmakers may not be done yet with a deadline looming concerning ballots for the midterms. 

Tune in 24/7 to Georgia NOW. Grab the app or listen online at georgianow.com — and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share Georgia NOW News wherever you get your podcasts.

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