Gov. Brian Kemp signed a series of bills into law Thursday to reduce bureaucracy, modernize professional licensing and protect state agencies from foreign interference.
The governor signed Senate Bill 96 and House Bill 113, two legislative priorities focused on streamlining government operations and improving cybersecurity in state procurement.
"Every day we serve the people of Georgia, it’s important for us to remember that we work for them," Kemp said. "It’s our job to help streamline their experiences with the government, make it easier for them to access opportunity, and limit as best we can the challenges they may face in accessing new skills and good careers.”
SB 96, sponsored by Sen. Drew Echols and carried in the House by Rep. Matthew Gambill, reduces the administrative burden on state agencies by eliminating inactive or redundant boards.
HB 113, sponsored by Rep. Lauren McDonald and carried in the Senate by Sen. Bo Hatchett, requires the Georgia Technology Authority to maintain a list of products and companies linked to foreign adversaries, as designated by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce. The Department of Administrative Services and other agencies will use the list to guide purchasing decisions and enhance state security.
Kemp also signed several additional bills aimed at reforming professional licensing and simplifying government operations:
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HB 148, sponsored by Rep. John Carson, adds two new pathways to CPA licensure while maintaining current standards. It also clarifies reciprocity for out-of-state CPAs.
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HB 322, sponsored by Rep. Lee Hawkins, permits the Georgia Board of Dentistry to issue teaching licenses to out-of-state practitioners employed at accredited institutions.
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HB 579, sponsored by Rep. Matt Reeves, gives the Professional Licensing Board Division Director authority to administratively approve licenses, expediting the process.
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HB 630, sponsored by Rep. Marcus Wiedower, streamlines requirements for licensing used motor vehicle dealers and parts dealers.
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HB 635, also sponsored by Wiedower, standardizes licensing requirements for contractors by reducing subjectivity and consolidating licensure pathways.
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SB 125, sponsored by Sen. Larry Walker, separates licensure pathways for engineers and land surveyors, allowing them to take licensing exams before completing experiential requirements. It also authorizes a third-party database to monitor continuing education compliance and modernizes regulatory language for several trades.
"Thanks to the diligent work of our partners in the General Assembly, I’m proud to say that the bills I’ve signed today will help us accomplish that," Kemp said.
