“We’ve got so much money that we’re not necessarily using it as wisely as we should.”

Georgia state Rep. David Wilkerson. The state has an $11 billion surplus, on top of $5.5 billion in rainy-day reserve funds. Wilkerson would like to see the state spend more on programs such as free meals for schoolchildren. GOP Gov. Brian Kemp has made clear that relief for victims of Hurricane Helene will be a priority this session. The GOP majority is contemplating $1 billion in tax relief. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Jan. 6, 2025)