Athens Reporter

State Representative Houston Gaines (R-Athens) recently lauded Governor Brian Kemp's announcement regarding the establishment of a medical school at the University of Georgia (UGA). This initiative forms part of Kemp's proposal to invest $1.8 billion in infrastructure, aimed at expanding health care training and bolstering Georgia's economy.

State Representative Gaines expressed his enthusiasm in a series of statements: "HUGE news for Athens," he said. "Gov. Kemp just announced UGA will have its own medical school." He added, "Thanks to President Morehead, Gov. Kemp & so many others who made this happen." Gaines concluded by saying, "The funding process will begin in this year’s state budget—I look forward to supporting this historic initiative."

AP News reports that Kemp addressed the Georgia Chamber of Commerce at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, where he detailed plans for spending $1.8 billion on infrastructure using the state's $11 billion surplus. His plans include allocating $1.5 billion to Georgia's Department of Transportation to expedite ongoing projects and introduce a freight infrastructure initiative. An additional $200 million is earmarked for local governments for road and bridge maintenance, while another $250 million is intended for the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority for water and sewer projects. Furthermore, Kemp plans to allocate $50 million to land development for housing and provide annual grants to local governments, along with $178 million for a new public dental school at Georgia Southern University and $50 million to expand a medical school at UGA.

Gaines' comment | X

According to AP News, Kemp also proposed legislation imposing stricter rules on workers forming unions. He suggested formal elections should be required for businesses benefiting from state incentives to unionize. This proposal comes amid extended timelines for lawsuit limitations and proposed restrictions on unionizing workers in state-subsidized projects. Kemp stated: "If we want to maintain the incredible position we’re in today for another generation, we need to make smart moves right now to secure that future."

WABE reports that Georgia's Capitol recently saw the return of legislators, staff, lobbyists, and journalists as the 40-day session commenced. Georgia Republicans claim to be focused on easing financial strain through an accelerated income tax reduction and proposing bonuses for state employees, including teachers. This session begins two months ahead of the state's presidential primary.

According to Ballotpedia, Gaines represents District 120 in the Georgia House of Representatives. He is serving his third term in the General Assembly since his election in 2018, representing sections of Barrow, Clarke, Jackson, and Oconee counties.