GEORGIA – The laws to come out of Florida’s 2025 legislative session have been well-documented, but Georgia, which had its session adjourned on April 4, also saw over 100 new laws go into effect on July 1.
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Some of those laws include a ban on using drones within 400 feet of a ticketed entertainment event, expansion of the state’s income tax credit, and even permitting an eco-friendly alternative to burial or cremation for deceased loved ones.
Of the dozens of new Georgia laws, here are 10 that went into effect once the clocks struck midnight on Tuesday.
Drones banned at ticketed events
HB 58 prohibits operators of unmanned aircraft systems, like drones, to be within 400 feet of a ticketed entertainment event such as music, sporting, or performing arts events.
Exceptions to the law include if the operator has been given legal permission to use the unmanned aircraft at the particular event.
Child Tax Credit Expansion
HB 136 allows parents of children aged 5 and under to claim a $250 tax credit.
It also creates a new $250 credit for any child under the age of 6.
State Tax Cut
HB 111 takes a previously planned state income tax cut and moves it up.
The current rate of 5.39% will be cut to 5.19%
IVF access
HB 428 ensures that no Georgia laws ban or prevent someone from receiving in vitro fertilization, otherwise known as IVF.
Care for Pregnant Women
HB 352 requires health insurers to provide better coverage for pregnant women with gestational diabetes, such as providing continuous glucose monitors and revising coverage to include Medicaid recipients.
Eco-Friendly Burial Alternative
SB 241 allows for human remains to be composted into soil as an alternative to burial or cremation.
Digital Driver’s Licenses
HB 296 requires police officers to accept an electronic form of a driver’s license when the police officer has the equipment to verify.
It is still recommended that all drivers maintain a physical copy of their ID at all times, as it is still required to verify identification at polling centers or for a lifetime sportsman’s license.
‘Georgia Survivor Justice Act’
HB 582 allows survivors of domestic violence or trafficking to ask for lighter pr reduced sentences if they committed crimes under pressure from their abuser.
‘Distraction-Free Education Act’
HB 340 bans public school students from kindergarten through eighth grade from using their cellphones during school and at school-sponsored events.
‘Top State for Talent Act’
HB 192 seeks to prepare Georgia students for jobs deemed by the State Workforce Development Board to be in high demand throughout the state.
A full list of legislation signed by Gov. Brian Kemp in 2025 can be found here.
