Here Are 10 New GA Laws Going Into Effect On New Year's Day

From animal cruelty to breast examinations to child welfare, multiple bills and statutes will officially become law in Georgia on Jan. 1, 2026.

The Georgia General Assembly is preparing to begin its new session on Jan. 14, but these bills that will become law on New Year's Day were passed last session.

Here are some of the changes coming to Georgia law and how they will affect residents. While some officially go into effect on Jan. 1, others include provisions or deadlines that begin on the first day of the new year.

Distraction-Free Education Act

This legislation requires Georgia school systems and public schools to adopt policies and procedures by Jan. 1, 2026, that restrict the use of personal electronic devices at school and school-sponsored events by students in kindergarten through grade eight. School systems must implement the policies, ensure parents and guardians are aware of them, and review the effectiveness once the policies are in place.

Ethics And Campaign Reporting Reform

SB 199 prohibits the State Ethics Commission from initiating an investigation of a candidate within 60 days of an election. It also requires local elected officials to file financial disclosures with the state rather than locally. The goal of the legislation is to reduce last-minute election disputes and increase transparency.

Homeowner Protections After Natural Disasters

SB 201 provides increased protection for homeowners entering into contracts with contractors following natural disasters for the repair, replacement or mitigation of damage to the home caused by the event. The bill prohibits insurers from selling homeowner's insurance policies within one year of a natural disaster.

Coverage Of Prosthetic Devices

SB 101 requires medical insurance policies to cover necessary orthotic devices and prosthetic devices beginning Jan. 1, and provides requirements for such coverage.

Motor Vehicle Temporary Operating Permits

HB 551 allows third-party vendors, such as car dealerships, to issue motor vehicle temporary license plates valid for up to 45 days after the date of purchase. Among other things, the bill also prohibits motorists from registering vehicles through a shell entity simply to avoid taxes, as well as requires booting companies to receive formal permits.

"America First" License Plate

This bill creates a specialty tag for Georgia license plates featuring the U.S. flag and the phrase "America First." Money collected from the tags will go toward the state's general fund.

Teledentistry Coverage

HB 567 authorizes the practice of teledentistry under certain conditions and limitations and provides for the regulation of the practice by the Georgia Board of Dentistry. It also permits coverage for dental care provided via teledentistry under dental benefit plans issued, amended, or renewed on or after Jan. 1, 2026.

Health Provider Response Requirements

This bill updates medical insurance communication rules by requiring providers to make documented, good-faith efforts to respond to attempts by review agents to discuss patient care. Providers must also communicate clearly when going through the review process for care.

Catastrophe Savings Accounts

HB 511 allows every Georgia taxpayer to create a catastrophe savings account, which can be used for disaster damage repairs. Any interest earned or distributions from the account will be tax-exempt, and funds are transferable to heirs upon death.

HVAC System Warranty Transfers

Under this law, any manufacturer's warranty of an HVAC system installed in a home that is in effect at the time the property is sold will automatically transfer to the new owner