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A bill that strikes reference to the U.S. Department of Education (USED) from the Georgia code is making its way through the General Assembly. Senate Bill 154, by Sen. Bo Hatchett, R Cornelia, is designed to help Georgia’s workforce “navigate the transition,” following action by President Donald Trump that finalizes his plans to dismantle the United States Department of Education through an executive order.  

Senate Bill 154, which passed the Senate earlier this month and the House this week, removes all references to the U.S. Department of Education from the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) and adds “or its successor” in the state code. It has been characterized as a proactive cleanup bill.  

“Many professions in Georgia have statutory education and training requirements regulated by the U.S. Department of Education,” said Sen. Hatchett. “Without updating state law, the department’s dissolution could jeopardize the accreditation of licensed professionals. 

“SB 154 ensures these professionals can continue their work without disruption, safeguarding Georgia’s skilled workforce,” Hatchett added. “With my legislation, Georgia is on track to adapt to these changes in workforce education successfully.” 

Hatchett said he intends to prepare Georgia if the federal department is shuttered, as USED is responsible for licensure approvals for several professions, including social workers and professional counselors. 

The House Substitute to SB 154, which passed by a 144-15 vote, is now headed back to the Senate for final consideration of changes made by the House Education Committee. Rep. Matt Dubnik, R-Gainesville, is carrying the bill in the House. He  emphasized the need for the bill for licensing issues. 

According to reports from several educational stakeholders, Georgia educators, families, and students have varied opinions, questions, and concerns regarding the president’s order.