Georgia 2026 Laws Update: Insurance Affordability, Tax Cuts, and Regulatory Changes
Starting January 1, 2026, Georgia will implement several new laws impacting insurance, taxation, property regulations, and healthcare. One significant change includes the gradual reduction of Georgia's flat state income tax to 4.99% by January 2027, which affects all taxpayers in the state. Additionally, the state introduces a catastrophe savings account to help residents prepare for emergencies. The Georgia Health Insurance Affordability and Consumer Protection Act mandates the creation of a state-driven insurance affordability program aimed at cushioning consumers from potential premium hikes if federal Affordable Care Act tax credits are decreased or discontinued. Insurance providers must also extend the notice period for policy termination from 30 to 60 days, enhancing consumer protections. Other insurance-related reforms include new requirements for insurers to maintain hospital appointment scheduling or callback systems on their websites to improve patient access. The implementation of updated teledentistry regulations reflects the state's move towards integrating telehealth services within dental care. In the property domain, new zoning verification processes for solid waste facility projects have been introduced. HVAC manufacturers must now transfer warranties automatically to new homeowners upon sale, with additional regulatory measures on warranty terms when installations are performed by licensed contractors. Legal and administrative adjustments comprise updated procedures for court hearing recordings, alterations to the Public Accountancy Act defining CPA certification pathways, and changes in temporary operating permit regulations. Moreover, private property owners may boot trespassing vehicles with appropriate local government approval and posted notices. In other sectors, the Georgia Lottery Corporation achieved a milestone of $30 billion donated to education since its inception. The state also revised its film and digital production tax credit law, requiring companies that unsuccessfully challenge certification denials to bear court costs. The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities now oversees drug abuse treatment programs, shifting authority from the Department of Community Health. Collectively, these legislative updates underscore Georgia's evolving approach to insurance affordability, consumer protections, regulatory compliance, and state administration ahead of a pivotal electoral cycle.