[co-author: Ryan Shacklette]
On Jan. 16, 2025, Gov. Brian Kemp delivered his 2025 State of the State address to the Georgia General Assembly, highlighting resilience and progress while outlining an agenda to strengthen Georgia’s economy and quality of life.
Economic Resilience and Recovery
Kemp began by addressing Georgia’s resilience in overcoming challenges like COVID-19 and Hurricane Helene, which caused $5.5 billion in damages. He commended bipartisan efforts in securing federal disaster relief and announced $600 million in direct financial assistance for industries affected by the hurricane.
Kemp also emphasized Georgia’s economic achievements, citing its 11-year reign as the nation’s top state for business, 193,000 new private-sector jobs, and $90 billion in investments, especially in rural areas. He proposed reducing the state income tax to 5.19%, saving taxpayers $7.5 billion over the next decade, building on previous tax relief measures totaling $7.6 billion.
Tort Reform to Reduce Insurance Costs
Addressing Georgia’s legal challenges, Kemp called for comprehensive tort reform to tackle rising insurance costs and excessive litigation. He cited businesses burdened by soaring premiums, including a Metro Atlanta childcare company with a 100% increase since 2018, and Waffle House, which faced a 235% rise. Kemp pledged bipartisan legislation during the 2025 session or a special session to stabilize insurance markets and protect businesses.
Public Safety and Education
Kemp reaffirmed his commitment to public safety and education, praising law enforcement for their swift response to a school shooting and proposing an additional $159 million for school safety in 2025, adding to the $294 million allocated since 2019.
Combatting human trafficking remains a priority, with $1.2 million earmarked to expand the state’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit, which has investigated over 330 cases and rescued nearly 200 victims. Kemp also highlighted First Lady Marty Kemp’s advocacy for new legislation to protect victims and punish offenders.
Healthcare and Mental Health
Kemp celebrated the success of the Georgia Pathways program, which expanded healthcare coverage to over 1.5 million residents. He argued that Georgia’s state-led solutions outperform traditional Medicaid expansion by delivering better outcomes while controlling costs.
Mental health services also remain a focus, with $1.6 billion allocated in 2024 to expand behavioral health resources. Kemp praised the 988 suicide hotline’s impact and promised continued investments in mental health.
Infrastructure Improvements
Kemp announced a $1 billion investment in infrastructure, including roads, freight logistics, and sewer systems, to support Georgia’s growth and competitiveness.
A Call for Collaboration
Kemp concluded by calling for bipartisan collaboration to address Georgia’s challenges and continue its trajectory of success, emphasizing the need for unity in ensuring economic stability, public safety, and opportunity for all Georgians.
