The creation of the Declaration of Independence stands as one of the most pivotal moments in the history of the United States. It not only marked the birth of a nation but also exemplified the courage, vision, and philosophical insight of the Founding Fathers. These men, through their work on the Declaration, demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the ideals of freedom, justice, and equality. Their dedication to the cause of liberty has left an indelible mark on the United States and continues to inspire generations to this day. Next year we will celebrate our 250^th or Semiquincentennial anniversary!

At the heart of the Declaration of Independence lies a profound sense of purpose. The Founding Fathers knew that they were not merely drafting a document to break from a foreign power; they were establishing the principles upon which the nation would stand. As they set pen to paper, they were not just acting in their own self-interest but were forging a new path for humanity. Their task was monumental creating a document that would be both a statement of independence and a timeless declaration of the rights of individuals. In doing so, they were laying the groundwork for a system of government that would prioritize liberty and self-governance.

One of the most striking aspects of the Declaration is the boldness with which it challenges existing power structures. The document opens with a statement of universal principles: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” These words, simple yet powerful, were a direct challenge to the idea that kings and monarchs held divine authority over their subjects. By invoking these universal rights, the Founding Fathers shifted the basis of political authority from the crown to the people themselves.

The decision to declare independence was not made lightly. The Founding Fathers were fully aware of the risks involved in their actions. Signing the Declaration of Independence was, in essence, an act of treason against the British crown, punishable by death. Yet, despite the personal risk, they chose to stand firm in their belief that the cause of liberty was worth any sacrifice. In fact, Thomas Jefferson, the principal author of the Declaration, later wrote, “The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.” This sentiment reflected the sense of duty that the Founding Fathers felt toward the creation of a free nation. Their bravery and selflessness were instrumental in the success of the American Revolution.

While the Declaration was certainly a revolutionary document, it was also a reflection of the Founding Fathers’ deep understanding of the complexities of governance. They knew that the establishment of a new government would require more than just the rejection of monarchy; it would require the creation of a system that would ensure justice, balance, and the protection of individual rights. The Declaration of Independence, in this sense, became not only a call for freedom but also a blueprint for the future governance of the United States. It was a statement that the government derives its power from the consent of the governed, a concept that would later be fully realized in the Constitution.

The inspirational work of the Founding Fathers in creating the Declaration of Independence cannot be overstated. Their courage, vision, and dedication to the ideals of liberty continue to inspire people around the world. The Declaration, with its powerful words and revolutionary ideas, laid the foundation for a nation built on the principles of equality, justice, and freedom. It is a testament to the enduring strength of the American spirit and a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought to secure the rights and freedoms that we hold dear today.

As we reflect this July 4^th, Independence Day on the legacy of the Declaration of Independence, we are reminded that the work of the Founding Fathers was not just an isolated event in history. Their vision continues to shape the American identity and guides us in our ongoing pursuit of a more perfect union. God Bless America!

This summer, our work on your behalf continues in full force. I’m actively serving on several committees, meeting with department leaders, engaging with local organizations, and attending conferences across the state. One of the most important parts of my job is helping constituents navigate challenges and get results. It’s an honor to serve you and be your voice in government…

Today, Sen. John Albers (R–Roswell) recognized the life-saving impact of legislation he authored earlier this year, Senate Bill 58, the Georgia Transporting Life-Saving Organs and Personnel Act, which was signed into law by Governor Brian P. Kemp on May 9, 2025.

The measure creates a legal framework for licensing and operating emergency organ transport vehicles in Georgia, formally recognizing them as ambulance services and authorizing their use on public roads during time-sensitive transplant procedures. The legislation ensures these vehicles can move efficiently and safely without regulatory delays, removing bureaucratic barriers that could otherwise cost lives.

“This legislation means the world to me—not just as a lawmaker, but as a father,” said Sen. Albers. “After donating a Kidney to my son in 2021 I understand and know the urgency that families feel in those moments. When a match is found, every second counts. This law gives patients and medical teams a better chance to succeed.”

SB 58 exempts emergency organ transport vehicles from certain regulatory hurdles such as the Emergency Medical Systems Communications (EMSC) Program and medical adviser requirements. It also ensures appropriate insurance coverage and compliance with Department of Public Health standards, while streamlining coordination between healthcare providers and emergency responders.

“By treating these specialized vehicles as essential emergency services, we are modernizing our healthcare system in a meaningful way,” Sen. Albers added. “Whether it’s a kidney, liver, heart with a team of surgeons rushing to save a life, Georgia now ensures that every tool necessary for an organ transplant has a clear and direct path to where it’s needed most.”

Sen. Albers, Chairman of the Senate Public Safety Committee, has consistently advocated for public safety and healthcare reforms that put people first. SB 58 is a testament to his commitment to addressing real-world challenges with practical solutions and to his deep personal connection to the issue of organ donation. Senator Albers worked with the GA Department of Public Safety, “NORA” Nationwide Organ Recovery Transport Alliance, LifeLink of Georgia, and the Georgia Transplant Foundation to make this a reality.

The law took effect immediately upon its signing in May. Read more about the bill here.

Sen. John Albers serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Safety. He represents the 56th Senate District, which includes portions of Cherokee, Cobb and Fulton County. He may be reached at his office at 404.463.8055 or by email at [email protected].

I am proud to have once again supported and voted to return money to Georgia taxpayers made possible by our commitment to conservative budgeting and maintaining Georgia’s position as the #1 state for business. While other states face budget shortfalls and rising unemployment, Georgia continues to thrive and lead. Please note the specific information below and if I can be of additional service, please let me know. – Senator John Albers

Gov. Kemp: Special Tax Refund Checks Begin Issuing This Week

Governor Brian P. Kemp and the Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR) announced today that the state will begin issuing one-time, special tax refunds this week. The third round of such refunds under Governor Kemp’s leadership, these measures were made possible by the passage of House Bill 112 during the 2025 legislative session and are a direct result of conservative budget practices and a strong state economy. Most eligible taxpayers who filed their 2023 and 2024 returns in a timely manner and before the filing deadlines can expect to receive their refund within the coming weeks.

“Because we’ve managed our state’s resources wisely, we’re again able to return money to hardworking Georgians who know how best to use it,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Along with our acceleration of the largest income tax rate cut in state history, this latest refund is just one more way we’re working to support the people of our state, their families, and their businesses, because that’s not the government’s money, it’s theirs!”

This marks the third time Georgia has returned a portion of its revenue surplus to taxpayers, with previous refunds issued in 2022 and 2023. To be eligible, taxpayers must have filed both 2023 and 2024 individual income tax returns, have paid into the system, and do not owe the state Department of Revenue. An individual filer’s refund amount will depend on their tax liability from the 2023 tax year and is capped at:

• $250 for single filers and married individuals filing separately
• $375 for head of household filers
• $500 for married individuals filing jointly

In addition to HB 112, the General Assembly also passed HB 111, reducing Georgia’s income tax rate from 5.39% to 5.19%. This was the second acceleration of the income tax cut implementation schedule signed by Governor Kemp in 2022. 

Taxpayers can check their eligibility using the Surplus Tax Refund Eligibility Tool, available through the Georgia Tax Center, by inputting their tax year, Social Security Number or Tax Identification Number, and Federal Adjusted Gross Income. For more details, including Frequently Asked Questions and refund tracking, visit: https://dor.georgia.gov/georgia-surplus-tax-refund.

The 2025 Legislative Session concluded, and we adjourned Sine Die on April 4th. We passed landmark legislation, balanced our budget, and worked tirelessly to help families and businesses. Governor Kemp will review all legislation to either veto or sign into law…

Last week, Senate Bills 84 and 58 passed through the House with unanimous support. These measures, sponsored by Sen. John Albers (R–Roswell), support organ donation in Georgia.

SB 58, the “Georgia Transporting Life-Saving Organs and Personnel Act,” will grant emergency organ transport vehicles the same abilities as ambulance services. SB 84 creates a special license plate recognizing the importance of organ donation.

“I know firsthand the impact that organ donation can have on a family after donating a kidney to my son in 2021,” said Sen. Albers. “Time is of the essence when transporting a donated organ to a patient. Granting organ transport vehicles the same rights as an ambulance through SB 58 ensures that no family has to pray for light traffic when their loved one is waiting for a transplant. Additionally, SB 84 highlights the impact of organ donation, and the phrase ‘Organ Donors Save Lives’ is a clear reminder of the life-changing significance of these services. Organ donation is essential, and I am truly honored to see the passage of this legislation to help save more lives.”

Having passed through the Senate and the House, SB 58 now awaits the Governor’s approval to be signed into law. SB 84 will return to the Senate for a final vote after passing the House by substitute.

You can find more information about SB 84 here and SB 58 here.

Sen. John Albers serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Safety. He represents the 56th Senate District, which includes portions of Cherokee, Cobb and Fulton County. He may be reached at his office at 404.463.8055 or by email at [email protected].

Ten weeks into the 2025 Legislative Session, we reached several major milestones, delivering real results for our farmers, job creators and hardworking Georgians.

As I write the update, we will be debating final passage of Senate Bill 68 through both chambers of the General Assembly, the tort reform legislations, which has been a top priority for Governor Brian Kemp. SB 68 is designed to curb lawsuit abuse and shield small businesses from predatory legal tactics. This important work as well as significant focus on the insurance providers are needed to lower premiums for Georgia families and businesses.

We’re also making sure you keep more of what you earn. The Senate just passed a major tax cut, House Bill 111, that lowers the state income tax, putting real money back in your pockets year after year. On top of that, we’re providing a one-time rebate through the passage of House Bill 112 to help families cover the rising costs of groceries, gas, and other essentials. Whether it’s helping you invest in your farm, support your small business, or simply make ends meet, these tax cuts are about giving you more financial freedom, and both bills are now on their way to Governor Kemp’s desk, fulfilling yet another promise to ease the financial burden on Georgia families.

On the legislative front, I’m proud to be carrying House Bill 161, which sends a clear message: domestic terrorists have no place in the State of Georgia. This bill gives the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) the authority to issue subpoenas for electronic communications, helping them investigate crimes and cyber threats that put lives and property at risk. It also strengthens the legal definition of domestic terrorism and gives the GBI more tools to go after illegal aliens involved in acts of terror. At its core, HB 161 is about keeping you, your family, and your community safe. It empowers law enforcement to respond more quickly and effectively to real threats. The bill has now passed both chambers and is on its way to the Governor’s desk.

I’m also carrying House Bill 423, which will improve Georgia’s 9-1-1 systems, something that matters to everyone, especially in rural areas where seconds count during an emergency. This legislation upgrades our outdated call centers to next-generation standards, making it easier for responders to locate you if you’re in danger, especially in the wake of natural disasters like Hurricane Helene. It also ensures better coordination between 9-1-1 centers across the state, speeding up emergency response times when it matters most. HB 423 has passed the Senate and is now awaiting the Governor’s signature.

Lastly, I recently introduced Senate Resolution 391 to establish the Senate Study Committee on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Currency. After chairing last year’s committee on AI, I’ve seen firsthand how fast this technology is evolving, and how important it is that Georgia stays ahead of the curve. We welcome innovation, but we must also make sure digital currencies and new technologies are being used safely and responsibly. This new study committee will explore how AI can help protect consumers, strengthen security, and support smart growth across our state.

Each of these efforts is focused on one goal: making Georgia safer, stronger, and better prepared for the future.

As always, if you have questions, concerns, or ideas, please don’t hesitate to contact my office. Serving the 56^th Senate District under the Gold Dome is an honor.

Sen. John Albers serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Safety. He represents the 56^th Senate District, which includes portions of Cherokee, Cobb and Fulton County. He may be reached at his office at 404.463.8055 or by email at [email protected].

Governor Kemp has declared a State of Emergency for tornadoes and severe weather in the State of Georgia. Please see the update from Georgia Emergency Management (GEMA) below and be safe. Please contact my office if we can be of assistance: www.senatoralbers.com.

A significant severe weather event is expected across the Southeast this weekend. A powerful line of storms with embedded supercells will move into Georgia late Saturday night through Sunday morning. The Storm Prediction Center has issued a rare High Risk (level 5 of 5) for parts of Mississippi and Alabama and have pushed the Moderate Risk (level 4 of 5) into much of western Georgia. Moderate Risks typically occur in Georgia about once per year, indicating confidence that this will be a high-end severe weather event.

The main threats will be tornadoes and damaging winds with large hail also possible. SPC has included “Hatched Areas” for potentially strong tornadoes of EF2+ and wind gusts over 75 mph in both the Moderate and Enhanced Risk areas. Long-tracked, potentially violent tornadoes will be possible in Mississippi and Alabama on Saturday afternoon and evening which could move into western Georgia on Saturday night. Although the environment over Georgia will be more stable than over Mississippi and Alabama, severe weather parameters should remain high enough to sustain powerful thunderstorms overnight Saturday through Sunday morning.

While some strong thunderstorms are possible during the day on Saturday, the main window for severe weather will begin late Saturday night in northern and western Georgia. Supercells and a broken line of storms will shift eastward overnight and should move out of Metro Atlanta by sunrise on Sunday. The main window for severe weather in eastern and much of southern Georgia will be after sunrise on Sunday. SPC has a Slight Risk (level 2 of 5) for these areas on Sunday, but that risk level could increase with confidence that strong storms may redevelop later on Sunday morning and afternoon.

Significant severe weather will be possible anywhere in Georgia Saturday night and Sunday morning regardless of the exact SPC risk category. With this being an overnight event, please ensure you have multiple ways to receive severe weather warnings and review your tornado safety plans beforehand. Please continue to monitor updates from the Storm Prediction Center, your local National Weather Service office, and reliable media outlets through the duration of this event.

We’re in the final stretch of the 2025 Legislative Session, and things are getting down to the wire. Last Thursday was Crossover Day, the last chance for bills to clear their first major hurdle. With less than 10 legislative days left, Senate Republicans are doubling down to push through real, commonsense legislation that puts Georgians first and stands up to the continued nonsense coming from the radical progressives.

Over the next three weeks, we will work in House committees to get Senate bills across the finish line. That means defending Georgia values, making our communities safer, cutting bureaucratic red tape, and pushing back against the destructive policies that have left hard-working Georgians struggling to make ends meet. I’m proud to report that SB 58, the “Georgia Transporting Life-Saving Organs and Personnel Act,” made it through the House Committee on Health and is one step closer to becoming law. This is a win for our district and state, and I’ll keep you updated as we get it over the finish line.

On Thursday, the Senate took up the House’s budget recommendations for 2025-2026. Let’s be clear: this is your money. You work hard to put food on the table, and it’s our job to make sure the government isn’t wasting a single penny of it. As the chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Criminal Justice and Public Safety, I sat in meetings where we held agencies accountable and made sure taxpayer dollars are being spent wisely. We’re cutting waste, prioritizing law enforcement and ensuring your kids can get their education safely.

Beyond the budget, we ramped up committee work to pass meaningful, conservative legislation. I supported House Bill 549 in the Senate Committee on Public Safety. This bill ensures that the local agency that pays for an officer’s training is reimbursed if that officer leaves within 36 months of completing their training. This is exactly the type of policy we need, emphasizing real solutions to real problems.

I’m also carrying House Bill 283 because it’s time we stand up and fight for the safety of our law enforcement officers. Many people may be unaware that signing a citation administered by an officer is not an admission of guilt. This confusion can seriously affect officers and citizens when negotiating a tense situation. Under HB 283, officers can write “Refusal to Sign” on a citation to ensure everyone returns home safely. This legislation will reduce negative encounters with law enforcement, free up officers for high-priority calls and ultimately save taxpayer dollars.

Finally, I invited the family and colleagues of Officer Jeremy Labonte to the Capitol this week. This young man’s life was cut short, and his legacy will always be remembered for those passing the GA 400/US 19 and Holcomb Bridge Road interchange, soon to be known as the Officer Jeremy Labonte Memorial Interchange. After presenting a flag to his wife, I asked for every member of the Senate who had served in the military or first responder to join me in saluting his family. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to honor his service on behalf of the Roswell community.

Whether it’s small business owners, law enforcement officers or hard-working Georgians just trying to make a living, your voices are why I’m here. We need more of you stepping up, speaking out and staying engaged because the fight for Georgia’s future isn’t just happening at the Capitol—it’s happening in our communities, our schools, and at our kitchen tables.

With just a few weeks left in this session, if you have concerns, ideas, or just want to know more about what’s happening under the Gold Dome, reach out. Your voice matters, and I’m here to make sure it’s heard.

Sen. John Albers serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Safety. He represents the 56^th Senate District, which includes portions of Cherokee, Cobb and Fulton County. He may be reached at his office at 404.463.8055 or by email at [email protected].

We’ve officially reached one of the biggest milestones of the legislative session—Crossover Day. This marks the final opportunity for bills to pass out of their original chamber and remain eligible to become law before the session ends. It’s a fast-paced, high-stakes time under the Gold Dome, and this week was no exception. With the session winding down, our focus now shifts to working with the House to finalize these bills. Below is a look at some of the key measures we’ve passed that will have a real impact on our communities.

Every parent deserves peace of mind knowing their child is safe at school. That’s why Senate Republicans have made school safety a major priority this session. We’ve passed three proactive measures to keep our students and educators secure. SB 17 requires all schools to install mobile panic alert systems and provide school mapping data to law enforcement. In an emergency, every second counts. We can prevent tragedies and protect lives by reducing response times and giving first responders better information. SB 61 ensures that juveniles charged with attempted murder or terroristic threats against a school will be prosecuted as adults. We cannot afford to treat these serious crimes lightly. This bill sends a strong message—schools are places of learning, not places of fear.

SB 179 requires that students send their academic and disciplinary records within ten days of transferring to a new school and notify their parents or guardians within five days. This helps ensure that schools know of any past behavior concerns and can provide the necessary support and oversight. These common-sense policies strengthen our schools’ ability to keep students safe while ensuring we remain vigilant against potential threats.

In Georgia, we back the blue and stand with those who put their lives on the line to protect us. Whether it’s law enforcement officers, firefighters, or emergency responders, we recognize their service and sacrifice. This year, we passed key bills to provide them with financial and retirement security.

SB 56 expands the Georgia Indemnification Fund to provide financial support to the families of public safety officers who lost their lives due to COVID-19. This is about doing what’s right for the families of those who gave everything for their communities. SB 31 eliminates state taxes on military retirement income. While Georgia already offers some tax exemptions, this bill makes us fully competitive with neighboring states that don’t tax military pensions at all. This is about honoring our veterans and making Georgia a more attractive place for retired servicemen and women to live and work.

SB 129, the “Georgia Supporting Those Who Sacrificed for Service Act,” expands the homestead exemption for totally disabled veterans and introduces new exemptions for partially disabled veterans and first responders. I sponsored this bill to recognize their sacrifices.

The Senate also passed my bill, SB 111, the “Georgia Consumer Privacy Protection Act,” which strengthens online data security. This legislation, stemming from the 2024 Senate Study Committee on AI, empowers consumers to control their personal data and limits how it is collected and stored, helping protect Georgians from identity theft and financial fraud.

Additionally, SB 9, the “Ensuring Accountability for Illegal AI Activities Act,” targets AI-driven crimes, such as obscene imagery harming minors and fraudulent impersonations of seniors. This bill deters bad actors while safeguarding AI’s positive applications.

With SB 27, the “Georgia Anti-Doxxing Act,” we criminalize doxxing as a stalking-related offense. Posting personal information without consent can cause severe harm, and this bipartisan measure reinforces our commitment to online safety. I sponsored this bill to keep Georgians safe.

Lastly, I was honored to recognize law enforcement leaders at the State Capitol for Police Chiefs and Heads of Law Enforcement Agencies Recognition Day. The Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police exemplifies outstanding leadership, and Senate Resolution 60 commends their dedication to public safety. Georgia will always stand with those who protect and serve.

As we enter the final stretch of the legislative session, I encourage you to reach out with any questions, concerns, or input. I look forward to pushing for legislation that strengthens our communities, upholds our values, and ensures a brighter future for all Georgians.

Sen. John Albers serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Safety. He represents the 56^th Senate District, which includes portions of Cherokee, Cobb and Fulton County. He may be reached at his office at 404.463.8055 or by email at [email protected].