By FOX 5 Atlanta Digital Team
Published July 24, 2025 9:00am EDT
Georgia committees looking at gambling, chronic absenteeism
Two Georgia House committees are looking into a couple of issues that could impact Georgia residents. One House committee is looking into gambling and whether it should be allowed in Georgia. The other House committee is taking a look at chronic school absenteeism.
ATLANTA – Two state House committees are taking a closer look at issues that could have a significant impact on Georgians, as lawmakers prepare for the upcoming legislative session.
What we know:
One committee is focused on the possibility of legalizing gaming in Georgia. Lawmakers plan to begin by clearly defining what constitutes “gaming” and “gambling,” and how those definitions apply to various activities. The committee will also evaluate the potential economic effects, including whether legalization could boost tax revenue for the state. The first meeting is scheduled for Monday morning in Oconee County.
Meanwhile, a second House committee is examining the growing problem of chronic absenteeism in Georgia schools. The panel’s goal is to propose legislation that could help reverse the troubling trend. Lawmakers heard initial presentations earlier this week and plan to hold two additional hearings, with the next one set for September 22.
Earlier this year, Gov. Brian Kemp signed a measure into law that requires schools to create written attendance protocols. However, the law also prohibits schools from expelling students solely for attendance violations, signaling a shift toward more supportive interventions.
What’s next:
Both committees are expected to issue reports and recommendations ahead of the 2025 legislative session.
