Georgia's political landscape remains turbulent as the state grapples with the aftermath of the disputed 2024 parliamentary election. Protests continue against the ruling party, with reports of police brutality and attacks on journalists[2]. The crisis deepened when Parliament unconstitutionally self-convened and elected a new president, Mikheil Kavelashvili, in December 2024. Former President Salome Zourabichvili maintains she is still the legitimate leader[2].

In economic news, Georgia is projected to see strong franchise business growth in 2025, with an expected 6.7% increase totaling 34,156 businesses and adding 20,617 new jobs[3]. The state's overall economy is forecast to grow by 2.4% in 2025, outpacing the national average but slowing from 3.1% growth in 2024[8].

Environmental developments include plans to modernize Georgia's weather forecasting and early warning systems by 2025. The National Environmental Agency signed a memorandum with the Finnish Meteorological Institute to upgrade observation networks, equipment, and laboratories[4]. Climate projections for February 2025 indicate warmer-than-usual temperatures across the region, with potential drought expansion in southern areas[9].

In military news, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth signed a memorandum renaming Fort Moore back to Fort Benning, honoring a World War I soldier[6].

The state legislature is advancing bills to ban transgender athletes from girls' school sports and address runaway lawsuit payments. Lawmakers are also working on a $40.5 billion state budget, the largest in Georgia's history[1].

Looking ahead, Georgia faces challenges in balancing political stability, economic growth, and environmental concerns. The state's response to ongoing protests and its approach to EU accession negotiations will be crucial in shaping its future. Additionally, the potential for early-season drought could impact agriculture, making water management a key issue in the coming months.

Georgia is experiencing a mix of political turmoil, economic growth, and severe winter weather as it enters 2025. The state is currently embroiled in a political crisis stemming from disputed parliamentary elections in October 2024, with protests continuing against the ruling party[2]. Former Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili is widely seen as the de facto ruler, with most government officials following his orders. The crisis has escalated with the ruling party's decision to suspend preparations for EU accession negotiations, contradicting the Georgian Constitution[2].

Despite political challenges, Georgia's economy is projected to grow by 2.4% in 2025, outpacing the national growth rate of 1.6%[3][8]. This growth, while slower than the 3.1% seen in 2024, is attributed to a burgeoning population and sustained job growth. The slowdown is largely due to the Federal Reserve's efforts to control inflation, which has successfully reduced inflation from 8% in 2022 to 3% in 2025[3].

In judicial news, Chief Justice Michael P. Boggs announced his resignation from the Supreme Court of Georgia, effective March 31, 2025[6]. Boggs, who has served for 25 years in elective office, including over two decades as a judge, plans to return to private practice in South Georgia.

The state is currently grappling with severe winter weather. A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for Central and South Georgia, with snowfall accumulations of two to five inches expected. Metro Atlanta is under a Winter Weather Advisory, with up to two inches of snow forecast[4]. The Georgia Emergency Management Agency warns of dangerous travel conditions and possible power outages, urging residents to complete final preparations before the precipitation begins.

Human rights organizations have expressed concern over the government's actions in 2024. Human Rights Watch reported that the Georgian government has adopted new repressive laws, used police violence against protesters, and moved away from EU accession and associated human rights reforms[7].

Looking ahead, Georgia faces several challenges and opportunities. The political crisis shows no signs of immediate resolution, with ongoing protests and international scrutiny. The economy is expected to continue its growth trajectory, albeit at a slower pace. The state will need to address the immediate impacts of the winter storm while also focusing on long-term infrastructure and economic development projects. Additionally, the upcoming vacancy in the Supreme Court of Georgia will likely spark discussions about the future direction of the state's judiciary.

Georgia continues to experience economic growth and legislative activity as 2025 unfolds. The state's economy is projected to grow by 2.4% in 2025, slower than the 3.1% growth seen in 2024 but still outpacing national projections[3]. This growth is attributed to a burgeoning population and sustained job growth, according to forecasters at the University of Georgia Selig Center for Economic Growth.

In political news, the Georgia Senate Committee for Agriculture and Consumer Affairs unanimously passed SB 144, which would remove health risk labels from pesticide products[1]. Additionally, lawmakers are pushing to ban ranked-choice voting in the state, with proponents arguing it would maintain the current election system[1].

The Georgia legislature's 2025 session is in full swing, with important dates including the State of the State Address on January 16, Crossover Day on March 6, and Sine Die on April 4[2]. Republicans maintain control of the governor's office and majorities in both the state House and Senate, continuing their nearly two-decade trifecta of power in Georgia[2].

In business news, PBS Aerospace announced plans to establish its North American headquarters in Metro Atlanta, investing up to $20 million in the project[1]. However, Freyr Battery US LLC has officially abandoned its proposed $2.6 billion electric battery factory in Georgia[1].

Georgia's tourism industry is booming, with a record-setting 171 million visitors spending $43.6 billion in 2023[6]. The coast of Georgia, in particular, is benefiting from this surge in tourism.

On the weather front, Georgia experienced significant winter weather in late January 2025, with a Winter Storm Warning issued for Central and South Georgia[4]. The storm brought two to five inches of snowfall accumulation to many areas, causing travel disruptions and potential power outages.

In healthcare news, U.S. senators are introducing bipartisan legislation to strengthen federal oversight of pregnancy care in prisons and jails, following testimony from Georgia women about facing abuse and neglect[1].

Looking ahead, Georgia faces both opportunities and challenges. The state must continue to invest in infrastructure, workforce development, and education to maintain its competitive edge and address issues such as poverty, which increased to 13.6% of the population in the past year[8]. Additionally, the aging population trend in Georgia will have implications for workforce succession and healthcare needs. As the state moves forward, balancing economic growth with community needs and environmental concerns will be crucial for Georgia's continued success.

Georgia's economy is projected to grow by 2.4% in 2025, slower than the 3.1% growth seen in 2024 but still outpacing the national average[3]. The state's burgeoning population and sustained job growth are expected to drive this expansion, according to forecasters at the University of Georgia Selig Center for Economic Growth.

In political news, the Georgia Senate Committee for Agriculture and Consumer Affairs unanimously passed SB 144, which would remove requirements for pesticide and fertilizer manufacturers to warn consumers about health risks beyond federal regulations[1]. Additionally, state lawmakers are pushing to ban ranked-choice voting, with bill sponsor Sen. Randy Robertson describing it as a "proactive" measure to maintain Georgia's current election system[1].

The Georgia legislature's 2025 session is underway, with Republicans maintaining control over both chambers and the governor's office[2]. Key dates for the session include the State of the State Address on January 16, Crossover Day on March 6, and Sine Die on April 4[2].

In business developments, PBS Aerospace announced plans to establish its North American headquarters in metro Atlanta, investing up to $20 million in the project[1]. However, Freyr Battery US LLC has officially abandoned its proposed $2.6 billion electric battery factory in Georgia[1].

On the environmental front, Georgia is set to introduce "international-standard" weather forecasting and early warning systems by 2025, following a memorandum of understanding between the National Environmental Agency and the Finnish Meteorological Institute[4]. This initiative aims to modernize meteorological and environmental observation networks, enhance climate modeling, and improve early warning services.

In community news, U.S. senators are introducing bipartisan legislation to strengthen federal oversight of pregnancy care in prisons and jails, following testimony from Georgia women about abuse and neglect[1]. The Births in Custody Reporting Act would require states to provide quarterly reports on pregnant individuals in custody and births within facilities.

Looking ahead, Georgia faces potential challenges with early-season drought impacts on agriculture, as warmer and drier conditions are expected in the coming months[9]. The state will need to focus on strategic resource allocation to support economic mobility, as the percentage of Georgia's population living in poverty increased to 13.6% last year, exceeding the national average[8]. Additionally, the state must continue investing in infrastructure, workforce development, and education to maintain its competitive edge and accommodate projected population and job growth through 2050[8].

Georgia is witnessing significant developments across various sectors, from legislative updates to economic forecasts and environmental concerns.

In the realm of government and politics, the Georgia State Senate has passed a controversial bill aimed at overhauling the state's civil litigation rules, a top legislative priority for Governor Brian Kemp. The bill, which passed with a 33-21 vote, is now headed to the House[1][2]. Additionally, lawmakers are considering measures that would affect transgender people, including bans on transgender students participating in female sports teams in K-12 schools and higher education[1].

On the economic front, Georgia is expected to experience steady growth in 2025, albeit at a slower pace than in 2024. The state is poised for robust job growth, significant population growth, and diverse industries and labor markets that will see it outperform the country[3]. Furthermore, a $250 child tax credit bill has been unanimously advanced by the Georgia State Senate, aiming to provide relief to working parents[2].

In community news, a bipartisan measure is gaining traction in the Senate to phase out a program that allows employers to pay people with disabilities below the minimum wage. The bill, sponsored by Republican State Senator Billy Hickman, was recently unanimously voted out of committee[1].

Environmental and weather updates include the prediction of wintry weather in Georgia, with accumulations of snow, sleet, or ice possible in the state, particularly along and north of Interstate 20[4].

Looking Ahead:
- The Georgia General Assembly is approaching Crossover Day on March 6, a critical deadline for bills to pass from one chamber to the other to remain viable for the session[2].
- The legislative session is set to conclude on April 4, with several key bills still under consideration[2].
- The state's economic performance will continue to be closely monitored, with forecasts indicating steady growth but potential challenges ahead[3].

In Georgia, several key developments have been unfolding across various sectors. The state legislature has been active, with Governor Brian Kemp's push to overhaul civil litigation rules advancing despite some Republican reservations. The Senate passed Senate Bill 68, which aims to limit civil lawsuit verdicts in some cases, by a 33-21 vote after a lengthy debate[1].

Additionally, a bipartisan measure to phase out a program that allows employers to pay people with disabilities below the minimum wage is gaining traction in the Senate. This bill, sponsored by Republican State Senator Billy Hickman, was unanimously voted out of committee, despite objections from one of the few centers still participating in the program[1].

In business and economy, Georgia's economy is projected to grow by 2.4% in 2025, a slowdown from the 3.1% seen in 2024. This growth is attributed to a burgeoning population and sustained job growth, according to economic forecasters at the University of Georgia Selig Center for Economic Growth[3].

On the community front, local business owners are pushing back on Senate Bill 122, which proposes changes in the way breweries can do business, including self-distribution of up to 3,000 barrels of their product and direct donations to charities[1].

In environmental and weather updates, wintry weather was predicted for the Southeast, with accumulations of snow, sleet, or ice possible in Georgia, particularly along and north of Interstate 20. This weather posed risks of hazardous travel conditions and isolated power outages[4].

Looking Ahead:
- The fate of Governor Kemp's tort reform bill in the House will be closely watched.
- The progress of the bipartisan measure to phase out subminimum wage for people with disabilities will be a significant development.
- The impact of Senate Bill 122 on Georgia's beer distribution system will continue to be a topic of interest.
- The state's economic growth and how it aligns with projections will be a key area of focus in the coming months.

Georgia has been making headlines with significant developments in government, business, and community news. The state legislature has been active, with a House elections subcommittee voting in favor of passing the Voter Integrity Act, which would prevent the Secretary of State from participating in a multistate database aimed at maintaining accurate voter rolls[1]. Additionally, a bill to create a statewide music office to promote the industry in Georgia cleared a state House committee[1].

In economic news, Georgia's economy is projected to grow by 2.4% in 2025, down from 3.1% in 2024, according to Ben Ayers, dean of the University of Georgia's Terry College of Business[3]. The state will continue to outperform the nation, which is expected to grow by 1.6% in 2025.

The state Senate has also made significant moves, unanimously advancing a $250 child tax credit bill[2]. This development comes as part of the ongoing 2025 legislative session, which began on January 13 and is set to conclude on April 4[2].

On the community front, Georgia recently faced severe winter weather, with a Winter Storm Warning issued for all of Central and South Georgia in January, resulting in hazardous travel conditions and potential power outages[4].

Looking Ahead:
- The 2025 legislative session will continue, with key dates including March 6 for Crossover Day and April 4 for Sine Die[2].
- The impact of the Voter Integrity Act and the establishment of the Georgia Music Office will be closely watched.
- Economic indicators will be monitored to see if Georgia's projected growth aligns with forecasts.
- The state's response to future weather events will be crucial in ensuring public safety and minimizing disruptions.

Georgia has seen a flurry of significant developments across various sectors recently. Notably, Governor Kemp announced that Duracell will establish its new Global Headquarters for Research and Development at Science Square in Atlanta, creating 110 jobs and investing approximately $56 million[1].

In the state legislature, several bills have made progress. The Georgia Senate unanimously backed a bill to increase the state child care tax credit, aiming to help more parents stay in the workforce[2]. Additionally, a bill to help dental schools recruit faculty by allowing dentists from other states and countries to apply for an instructor’s license passed unanimously out of the House Health Committee[1].

On the economic front, Georgia’s economy is projected to grow by 2.4% in 2025, outperforming the national growth rate of 1.6%, according to Ben Ayers, dean of the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business[3]. This growth is expected to be driven by various sectors, including the recent investment by Duracell.

In community news, U.S. Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock are working to secure federal disaster assistance for Georgia farmers affected by Hurricane Helene, after the state was denied an extension from FEMA[1]. Furthermore, a demonstration at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention headquarters in North Decatur showed support for affected workers amidst cuts to federally funded health care agencies[1].

Regarding environmental and weather updates, Georgia experienced significant winter weather in January, with a Winter Storm Warning issued for Central and South Georgia, leading to hazardous travel conditions and potential power outages[4].

Looking Ahead:
- The 2025 Georgia Legislative Session continues, with key dates including March 6 for Crossover Day and April 4 for Sine Die[2].
- The impact of recent economic developments, such as Duracell’s investment, on the state’s overall economic growth will be closely watched.
- The outcome of Senators Ossoff and Warnock’s efforts to secure federal disaster assistance for Georgia farmers will be a developing story.
- The progression of bills in the state legislature, including those related to child care tax credits and dental school faculty recruitment, will be monitored for their potential impact on various sectors in Georgia.

Georgia has seen a flurry of legislative activity recently, with several key bills advancing through the state House and Senate. A House elections subcommittee voted in favor of the Voter Integrity Act, which would prevent the Secretary of State from participating in a multistate database aimed at maintaining accurate voter rolls[1]. Meanwhile, a bill to create a statewide music office to promote the industry in Georgia cleared a House committee[1].

In education, Governor Brian Kemp announced a legislative package to strengthen K-12 education, including full funding for K-12 formula earnings, additional school safety grants, and enhanced mental health support[3]. The package also includes funding for technical education and transportation, as well as benefits for teachers and faculty.

On the economic front, the Georgia State Senate unanimously advanced a $250 child tax credit bill[2]. This move is part of broader efforts to support families and stimulate economic growth in the state.

In community news, recent winter storms have had a significant impact on Georgia, with several inches of snow and freezing rain causing icy roads and disruptions[4]. The state is also focusing on infrastructure projects, including a total capital package of $212.4 million proposed by Governor Kemp for school facilities and equipment[3].

Looking Ahead:
- The 2025 legislative session continues, with key dates including Crossover Day on March 6 and Sine Die on April 4[2].
- The impact of recent policy changes, such as the Voter Integrity Act and the child tax credit bill, will be closely watched.
- The state's efforts to promote the music industry and strengthen K-12 education are expected to be ongoing topics of discussion.

Georgia has seen a flurry of legislative and economic developments in recent weeks. The Georgia Senate passed a bill creating a tax holiday for guns, ammunition, and gun storage, which would be in effect for 11 days each year starting on the second Friday in October, coinciding with the start of deer hunting season[1]. Additionally, the Senate advanced a bill that would remove legal immunity for 'sanctuary cities' that do not follow immigration laws[1].

In economic news, Georgia is predicted to be the top state for franchise business growth in 2025, with an expected 6.7% growth rate, adding 20,617 new jobs and contributing $37.4 billion in economic output[3]. This growth is part of a broader national trend, with franchises expected to grow 2.4% in 2025, adding approximately 210,000 jobs nationally[3].

On the environmental front, Georgia experienced significant winter weather in January, with a Winter Storm Warning issued for Central and South Georgia, resulting in hazardous travel conditions and potential power outages[4].

In other news, the film industry in Georgia continues to thrive, with the state becoming a preferred location over California due to favorable tax incentives and diverse landscapes[1]. The Georgia Tourism Awards recognized Paul Cramer, President and CEO of The Classic Center, with the Tom Kilgore Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to destination development[1].

Looking Ahead:
- The 2025 Georgia Legislative Session continues, with key dates including March 6 for Crossover Day and April 4 for Sine Die[2].
- The impact of tariffs on metals, such as steel and aluminum, on Georgians is expected to be a topic of discussion, particularly in relation to the automotive and construction industries[1].
- The state's preparations for hosting major sporting events, including the Super Bowl and the NCAA Men’s Final Four, will be a focus for lawmakers and local officials[1].