Gov. Brian Kemp extends Georgia’s gas tax suspension just ahead of the busy Memorial Day travel weekend, as drivers continue to feel the strain of high fuel prices. Plus, Georgia shatters its primary early voting record with nearly one million ballots already cast before Election Day, as candidates across the state make their final push to voters.

A major economic development is coming to Macon-Bibb County, where Georgia-based manufacturer Unified Legacy plans a $125 million investment expected to create more than 500 jobs. In health news, Emory University joins a national coalition aimed at expanding HIV prevention services through local pharmacies following the passage of a new Georgia law.

And later, Gov. Kemp’s veto of a controversial gun bill is drawing praise from gun safety advocates and criticism from supporters who say the measure would have protected lawful gun owners.

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Kemp also signed a law that would make several local offices in Metro Atlanta counties nonpartisan beginning in 2028. Supporters say it could reduce political division, but critics argue removing party labels will confuse voters and disproportionately impact Democratic and Black communities in counties like DeKalb, Fulton and Gwinnett.

Plus, a new study from Emory University highlights growing food insecurity among Georgia families with children.

And Gov. Kemp signs expanded medical cannabis legislation into law, removing THC caps and broadening access for patients suffering from chronic pain and other illnesses.

Finally, a lawsuit was filed by the town of Social Circle against ICE over plans for a new immigration detention center, alleging federal officials skipped required environmental reviews.

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Gov. Brian Kemp signed Georgia’s fiscal year 2027 budget Tuesday, calling the spending plan fiscally responsible while prioritizing education, public safety, behavioral health, and agriculture. 

Plus, Georgia voters are preparing to decide two influential Public Service Commission races as concerns over utility costs and Georgia Power’s grid expansion bring new attention to the regulatory body. With 10 candidates competing across two seats, early voting is underway ahead of the May 19 primary.

Also in this episode:

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From workforce legislation and education reform to the growing strain on Georgia’s small businesses, today’s episode covers the economic pressures and policy changes shaping the state. Gov. Brian Kemp signed a new round of bills aimed at strengthening Georgia’s workforce pipeline, expanding scholarship opportunities and coordinating statewide workforce development efforts. Supporters say the measures will help Georgia remain competitive for jobs and economic growth in the years ahead.

Then, we hear from Georgia small business owners feeling the impact of tariffs, inflation and rising operating costs. Business owners in Augusta and Atlanta describe shrinking profits, higher supply expenses and difficult decisions to stay open as economic uncertainty continues.

Plus, leadership changes at The Atlanta Journal-Constitution as president and publisher Andrew Morse announces his departure after leading the paper’s digital transformation efforts. And in Monroe County, Oglethorpe Power breaks ground on a massive $3.3 billion natural gas power plant expected to serve hundreds of thousands of homes.

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Georgia lawmakers move to lower taxes and boost economic growth as Gov. Brian Kemp signs another round of legislation into law. We also take a look at Georgia’s upcoming attorney general primary race ahead of Election Day on May 19, with candidates focusing on issues ranging from public safety to civil rights and consumer protection.

Plus, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports on a proposal to drill for oil and gas in southwest Georgia, raising concerns about potential risks to freshwater aquifers. We’ll also cover the return of the Georgia Chamber’s “Coolest Thing Made in Georgia” competition, the latest on wildfire containment efforts in south Georgia and new tax deadline extensions for impacted residents.

And finally, two cruise ship passengers connected to a hantavirus outbreak are now being treated at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta as health officials work to contain the virus.

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Georgia lawmakers and state agencies are driving major policy changes across the state. Gov. Brian Kemp signed a slate of public safety bills aimed at supporting law enforcement officers, strengthening penalties for crimes targeting women and children, and improving interactions between police and people with developmental disabilities. 

Plus, Georgia House Speaker Jon Burns announces appointments to several 2026 legislative study committees that could shape future policy debates under the Gold Dome.

Also in this episode: the Georgia Bureau of Investigation reviews allegations of severe medical neglect tied to amputations suffered by a former inmate at Fulton County Jail.

And schools across Georgia prepare for a statewide student cellphone ban set to take effect in 2027, as researchers report early signs of improved classroom engagement in districts already enforcing restrictions.

Finally, Georgians are feeling pain at the pump as gas prices surge nationwide. 

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From a South Georgia teacher’s fight against alleged racial discrimination to major changes in Georgia’s education system, this episode covers the stories shaping communities across the state. We hear from Lana Foster, the former Echols County educator whose years-long legal battle over racism in her school district just scored a major victory in federal court. Then, Gov. Brian Kemp signs sweeping education legislation into law, including a statewide literacy initiative and expanded cell phone bans in public schools.

Plus, an investigation finds Georgia environmental regulators failed for years to stop dangerous PFAS chemicals from polluting Northwest Georgia waterways, despite repeated warnings. We also remember media pioneer and philanthropist Ted Turner, who died at 87 after transforming television news. And a troubling new report from the Anti-Defamation League shows antisemitic vandalism in Georgia reached record levels in 2025, even as overall hate incidents declined statewide.

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Georgia headlines this week span tragedy inside an immigration detention center, a long-awaited release, unusual election logistics, economic investments, and resilience in both farming and mental health advocacy.

A 33-year-old Cuban man died at the Stewart Detention Center in Lumpkin in what officials say is a suspected suicide, now under investigation. Immigrant rights advocates are calling for an independent review, pointing to ongoing concerns about conditions at the facility. Meanwhile, a Gwinnett County barber held at the same center for more than a year has been released following sustained community pressure, with supporters saying the move is critical for his health and recovery.

In metro Atlanta politics, voters in one state Senate district will face a rare scenario—casting ballots in both a special election and a primary for the same seat on the same day. 

On the economic front, nearly $3 million in new funding is headed to Atlanta to support housing stability and small businesses, while in South Georgia, recent rains are bringing relief to peanut farmers racing against time to plant their crops after drought delays.

And as Mental Health Awareness Month continues, Atlanta-based nonprofit Silence the Shame is marking 10 years of impact, even as it faces significant funding challenges. Leaders say the mission continues, with upcoming events aimed at sustaining critical conversations and support around mental health.

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Georgia’s reproductive rights landscape is once again in flux after the U.S. Supreme Court issued a temporary decision restoring access to abortion medication by mail. Advocates across the state are reacting with cautious optimism as the court halts a lower court ruling that would have restricted access to mifepristone. 

Meanwhile, a new partnership aims to bring hope to Georgians living with rare diseases. An Atlanta-based research group is teaming up with a global biotech company to streamline access to clinical trials—an often overwhelming and time-consuming process for both patients and physicians. 

Plus, Georgia taxpayers may soon see some extra cash. State leaders announced that one-time surplus tax refunds are on the way following the 2026 legislative session. And, early voting numbers are surging across the state. 

Finally, a new poll reveals a shift in sentiment among rural voters. Economic anxiety is rising, and more Georgians in rural communities are reconsidering the role of government as costs continue to climb. 

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