Kemp nominates Frank O'Connell for chief judge of Georgia Tax Court

Governor Brian P. Kemp has nominated Frank O’Connell to be the Chief Judge of the newly established Georgia Tax Court. The court aims to improve efficiency in handling state tax cases and was formed following a constitutional amendment approved by voters in November 2024. O'Connell's term as Chief Judge will commence on April 1, 2026, pending confirmation by the Georgia House and Senate Judiciary committees.

Governor Kemp expressed confidence in O'Connell's leadership, stating, "Georgia taxpayers deserve leadership at the Department of Revenue that recognizes who they are most accountable to and as commissioner, Frank O'Connell has never forgotten that - serving the people of our state with honor and great work ethic." He added, "That's why I'm again asking Frank to serve in a leadership position that will benefit the entire state."

Lt. Governor Burt Jones praised O’Connell’s contributions to Georgia’s fiscal stability, noting his effective leadership at the Department of Revenue. "Commissioner O’Connell has led the Department of Revenue well and I believe he will continue to be a great leader for Georgia in this new role," said Jones.

House Speaker Jon Burns also supported the nomination, acknowledging O'Connell's service over two decades with integrity and dedication. “Like our colleagues in the Senate, we look forward to confirming his appointment as Chief Judge of the Georgia Tax Court,” Burns remarked.

Frank M. O’Connell is currently serving as Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Revenue after being appointed by Governor Kemp in February 2023. His career with the department began over 21 years ago when he joined its Compliance Division before transitioning to roles such as Deputy Commissioner and General Counsel.

Before his tenure at the Georgia Department of Revenue starting in 2003, Mr. O’Connell spent ten years consulting on state and local taxation with two major accounting firms. He holds a law degree from the University of Notre Dame and an LL.M. in Taxation from New York University.

O’Connell resides in East Cobb with his wife, Shelia.