Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp tells business group he wants to spend $1.8 billion more on infrastructure
In a robust display of Georgia’s fiscal strength, Governor Brian Kemp unveiled a bold proposal for additional spending, allocating $1.8 billion towards infrastructure and expanding healthcare training. Kemp’s announcement comes at a time when the state boasts an $11 billion surplus, providing the Republican leader with the leverage to undertake substantial investments even as state revenues experience a slowdown.
Addressing the Georgia Chamber of Commerce at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Kemp outlined his multifaceted plan. The key elements include a $1.5 billion allocation to the Georgia Department of Transportation before June 30 to expedite planned roadwork and establish a freight infrastructure program. Of this amount, $200 million is earmarked for cities and counties to enhance local road and bridge maintenance.
Additionally, Kemp proposed investing $250 million in the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority, aimed at supporting water and sewer projects at the local government level. Another $50 million is allocated to a housing development fund, with an annual commitment of at least $6 million for future grants.
Kemp emphasized his commitment to addressing healthcare needs by allocating $178 million to establish a new public dental school at Georgia Southern University in Savannah and $50 million to create a separate medical school at the University of Georgia in Athens. These investments aim to bolster the state’s healthcare workforce in response to growing demand.
Read more:
- From Fame to Shame: Instagram Influencers to Plead Guilty in Drug Case
- January Health Alert: Free Cervical Cancer Screenings for Local Texas Women
- South Texas Blood Shortage Threatens Public Health, Donors Desperately Needed
- Mississippi Stance on Marrying Cousins: A Legal Overview
- Indianapolis Resident Receives 10-Year Sentence for Role in Multi-Million Dollar Nigerian Internet Scams
The Governor’s vision extends beyond immediate fiscal allocations. Kemp expressed his intention to limit lawsuits, acknowledging the impact on insurance premiums and business operations. While pledging to introduce legislation, he clarified that this effort would require more than one legislative session. He aims to stabilize insurance markets, premiums, and create a balanced legal environment to foster job growth.
Furthermore, Kemp outlined a proposal to make it more challenging for workers to unionize, aligning with the Georgia Chamber of Commerce’s agenda. The plan seeks to prevent businesses benefiting from state incentives from allowing unionization without formal elections, challenging the status quo where unions can be accepted without a vote. Kemp framed this move as safeguarding workers’ “right to opportunity” against external influences pushing for a pro-union agenda.
In response, Republican House Speaker Jon Burns voiced openness to exploring healthcare coverage expansion for low-income adults through Georgia’s Medicaid program. This signals a potential shift in policy, demonstrating a willingness to consider new approaches to healthcare access.
Governor Kemp’s announcement is a prelude to his State of the State address, promising additional proposals, including potential pay increases for public employees and teachers. The Governor’s proactive approach, backed by a substantial surplus, reflects a commitment to securing Georgia’s economic future through strategic investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and legal reform. As the state navigates evolving challenges, Kemp’s proposals aim to position Georgia for sustained prosperity.
