Update to an earlier report: This article includes new information about a story we previously covered. Read our earlier report.
Affordable housing, greater investment in Georgia pre-K and expanded health care access are among the issues state Rep. Carolyn Hugley says she wants lawmakers to address in the 2027 session. The Columbus Democrat is her party’s nominee for Georgia House speaker.
House Democrats selected Hugley on Thursday. She is expected to take the gavel when the General Assembly convenes in January, but she has not yet formally become speaker. If elected, she would be the first Black woman to lead the House in that role.
Hugley identified Medicaid expansion and broader access to health care as priorities, alongside efforts to make housing more affordable and increase investment in pre-K programs. She also said lawmakers could review existing election laws and look for ways to make voting more accessible, including working with the new secretary of state.
The parties will share power across the Capitol. Democrats have a narrow majority in the House and are set to control the governor’s office, while Republicans hold a narrow majority in the Senate. Legislation must pass both chambers before going to Gov.-elect Keisha Lance Bottoms, who can sign or veto bills.
The 2027 session will include 40 legislative days for lawmakers to pass a state budget.
Victoria Sterling
News Now Georgia
