Following the start of the 2020 legislative session, Governor Brian Kemp has placed a focus on fighting criminal street gangs, creating educational opportunity throughout the state, and building on a historic 2019 for Georgia.

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Gangs:

Atlanta Journal Constitution: "In Kemp’s budget proposal, the governor is asking legislators to approve spending nearly $2 million for seven new positions on the GBI’s Gang Task Force and resources to set up the statewide gang database.

'I will tell you this without any equivocation, this is the major issue facing law enforcement today,' [GBI Director] Reynolds said.'"

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Education:

Georgia Recorder: "Atlanta Public Schools teacher Tracey Pendley said Gov. Brian Kemp’s proposed teacher pay hike for the second year in a row shows a strong commitment to educators. Pendley, Georgia’s 2020 Teacher of the Year, was among the appreciative teachers crediting the governor Thursday for keeping his pledge to include $2,000 in next year’s budget to complete his promise two years ago to raise their pay by $5,000. Last year lawmakers approved a $3,000 raise that took effect this school year."

On the Dual Enrollment Act (HB 444)...“As the top state for business for the seventh straight year, Georgia’s workforce is second-to-none," said Governor Kemp. "To keep up the momentum, we must preserve the popular dual enrollment program so that students in every corner of our state have the opportunity to learn skills that prepare them for a successful career here in the Peach State.”

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Building on a Historic 2019:

CBS46: "Governor Brian Kemp is applauding record job growth numbers in 2019, saying the state has hit an all-time low for unemployment.

'It is a great time to be a Georgian," said Governor Kemp in a press release. "These record-breaking numbers are a testament to what we all know to be true: Georgia is leading the nation in business-friendly government and workforce development. With momentum on our side, we will continue to invest in our citizens and ensure Georgia remains at the top.'"

New AJC Poll: "A year after his tight election victory, Gov. Brian Kemp is shoring up support. About 60% of registered voters approve of his job performance, including one-quarter who 'strongly' support him."