Georgia lawmakers finalize $26 billion budget after bipartisan compromises

The Appropriations Conference Committee of Georgia convened on April 4, 2025, to finalize the state budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting commenced with expressions of gratitude towards the committee members and staff for their hard work and dedication in preparing a budget that aims to meet the needs of Georgians statewide.

Chairman Hatch opened the session by acknowledging the successful compromise reached on the 2026 budget, despite initial significant differences. He emphasized the collaborative efforts of the committee and the importance of the governor's involvement, particularly highlighting a $50 million contribution from the governor's office that facilitated the budget negotiations.

Following Hatch, other committee members expressed their appreciation for the teamwork displayed throughout the budgeting process. They noted the challenges faced, particularly the need for compromise among various stakeholders to create a budget that reflects the values and objectives of the state. The discussions underscored the importance of prioritizing the needs of Georgia's citizens, with members recognizing that while the budget may not fulfill every request, it serves the greater good.

The committee acknowledged the hard work of the House Budget and Research staff, particularly Director Christine Murdoch, and the expertise of subcommittee chairs who contributed significantly to the budget's development. Members reflected on the pressures of finalizing the budget on the last day of the session, but remained optimistic about the outcomes achieved.

As the meeting progressed, the committee members reiterated their commitment to serving the people of Georgia and expressed confidence in the budget's ability to address critical needs across the state. The session concluded with a collective resolve to finalize the budget and return home, marking the end of a challenging yet productive legislative session.