Georgia lawmakers are back at the Capitol as the 2026 legislative session gets underway, with health care, federal funding and core services emerging as early priorities. Henry County Rep. Elma D. Hawley says the state’s strong credit rating masks a deep reliance on federal dollars, arguing Georgia must be prepared to care for residents amid uncertainty around congressional action. Across the state, events honoring the life and legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. are continuing this week, with faith leaders and advocates emphasizing his message of love, justice and collective responsibility.

Policy debates are also colliding with community concerns. A small town east of Atlanta is pushing back against plans for a massive federal immigration detention center, warning it could strain limited water, sewer and tax resources. Advocates with the Interfaith Children’s Movement are urging lawmakers to view SNAP as an economic stabilizer and preventative tool, not just emergency aid. Meanwhile, Georgia health officials report a sharp surge in flu cases this season, with thousands hospitalized and dozens of deaths, prompting renewed calls for vaccination and prevention.

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