House agrees to Senate amendments on multiple Georgia bills including housing and healthcare

The Georgia House of Representatives made significant strides in legislative action during Session Day 40 on April 4, 2025, with the passage of several key bills aimed at addressing housing, transportation, and healthcare issues.

One of the most impactful decisions was the unanimous approval of House Bill 399, which aims to enhance accountability for hedge funds and out-of-state investors purchasing large numbers of single-family homes in Georgia. This legislation, supported by both property owners and tenants, seeks to stabilize the housing market, particularly in urban areas like Atlanta and Paulding County. Representative Mary Margaret Oliver emphasized the bill's importance in creating opportunities for families to buy homes and ensuring fair practices in the real estate market.

In addition, the House agreed to the Senate amendment for House Bill 296, which facilitates the issuance and renewal of driver's licenses, including provisions for mobile driver's licenses. This bill, which received overwhelming support, also allows for the payment of taxes on special modified rental vehicles over a one-year period, making it more manageable for consumers.

Another notable piece of legislation was House Bill 652, which addresses motor fuel tax exemptions for electric vehicle charging stations. The House approved a Senate amendment that postponed the effective date of the taxation and inspection requirements from January 1, 2026, to January 1, 2027, reflecting a collaborative effort to support the growing electric vehicle market.

House Bill 422, which mandates the inclusion of high deductible health plans in state employee insurance, also passed with unanimous support. This change is expected to provide more flexible health insurance options for state employees.

The House further approved House Bill 155, which allows certain cities in North Fulton to opt out of the Fulton County Development Authority's jurisdiction for property tax incentives. This bill aims to give local governments more control over their economic development strategies.

Lastly, House Bill 352, which requires Medicaid to provide continuous glucose monitoring for new mothers diagnosed with diabetes, received strong backing, highlighting the state's commitment to improving maternal health care.

These legislative actions reflect a proactive approach by Georgia lawmakers to address pressing community needs, from housing stability to healthcare access, setting a positive trajectory for the state's future.