'Lawmakers': Leaders discuss 'kitchen table' issues at annual Chamber of Commerce breakfast on Day 3

Caption

Georgia Speaker of the House of Representatives Jon Burns speaks at the Georgia Chamber of Commerce Eggs and Issues breakfast on Jan. 10, 2024.

Credit: GPB / Sarah Kallis

Lawmakers started their day bright and early at the annual Georgia Chamber of Commerce Eggs and Issues breakfast, where policy goals were on the menu. 

Leaders from across the state talked about the issues they think are most important this year. 

Governor Brian Kemp also laid out his priorities for the upcoming year, including funding for a dental college at Georgia Southern University and a medical school at the University of Georgia. 

"With these new assets on the way, we will further address the growing need for healthcare professionals in our state, and ensure that we are doing everything we can to address challenges across the healthcare spectrum," he said. 

In addition, Kemp announced significant infrastructure funding.

“This year, I’m proposing an additional $50 million in amended 2024 budget and $6 million in base funding for the fiscal year 2025 budget that will go to this fund, ensuring that these types of strategic investments continue," he said.

Kemp is expected to detail his goals more in tomorrow’s State of the State address. 

Speaker of the House Jon Burns ( R-Newington) also discussed his priorities today in a press conference. 

Burns said he wants to focus on what he calls “kitchen table” issues this session. 

One of those issues affecting healthcare is certificate of need. This legal document is part of the process to create a new hospital or medical facility in an area. 

"We want to leave no stone unturned when it comes to improving healthcare for Georgians," he said.

Burns also said the House is looking at other ways medical coverage can be expanded for Georgians. 

The 2024 elections were also on Burns’ mind. He said he wants to give the Office of Elections autonomy from the Secretary of State’s office. 

In the House, state representative Barry Fleming (R - Harlem) said goodbye to the chamber. He was tapped by Governor Brian Kemp to serve as a superior court judge in Columbia County.  

On legislative Day 4, lawmakers will host Governor Kemp in a joint session of the House and Senate as he delivers his State of the State address. Tune into GPB to watch live on Jan. 11 at 11 a.m. Democrats will also give their response. 

Tonight on Lawmakers  

Join host Donna Lowry and capitol reporter Sarah Kallis at 7 p.m. on GPB-TV for the 54th season of GPB's Lawmakers. Topics include swatting and ambulance shortages. The Jan. 10 episode features Rep. Park Cannon (District 58) and Rep. Sharon Cooper (District 45).