Governor Kemp signs FY26 budget focusing on education, healthcare, public safety

Governor Brian P. Kemp has signed the Fiscal Year 2026 budget in Atlanta, alongside First Lady Marty Kemp, Lt. Governor Burt Jones, House Appropriations Chairman Matt Hatchett, and other state leaders. The budget aims to address the needs of Georgia without expanding government or increasing long-term liabilities.

The new budget includes significant allocations for education, healthcare, public safety, and infrastructure. "Today, I’ll sign the budget for Fiscal Year 2026 - a budget that makes important investments to meet the needs of our growing state without growing government or adding to our long-term liabilities," said Governor Kemp.

Key investments in education include over $300 million for K-12 enrollment growth and expenses, $49.7 million for student mental health initiatives, and $13 million to improve literacy among elementary students. Additionally, $267 million is allocated for higher education growth within the University and Technical College Systems.

Healthcare funding includes $257 million for Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids expense growth and $10 million for capital repairs at state hospitals. Public safety investments feature $200 million for the Department of Corrections to enhance officer salaries and positions.

Infrastructure improvements are also a focus with $290 million dedicated to transportation projects and $715 million toward capital projects. These investments aim to maintain Georgia's position as a favorable place for business.

Lt. Governor Burt Jones highlighted the collaborative effort in creating this budget: “This budget is a result of deliberate and effective work by Senate Appropriations Chairman Tillery... In Georgia, we are continuing to keep government spending in check."

Speaker Jon Burns echoed this sentiment: “This year’s budget reflects the unwavering commitment of the General Assembly... Thank you to Governor Kemp, Chairman Hatchett, and each member of the House who worked tirelessly to get this budget across the finish line."

The FY26 budget reflects a fiscally conservative approach while prioritizing strategic investments across various sectors in Georgia.