NEWS

Last week, Savannah had the honor of hosting Georgia Governor Brian Kemp as he signed 25 new bills into law—19 of which directly impact our coastal communities. This momentous occasion marks a significant step forward for the Savannah area and the broader Coastal Empire.

Among the highlights, legislation was signed to establish the Savannah Music Commission, a key initiative that promises to strengthen Savannah’s cultural economy. This commission will support local artists, attract major music events, and generate increased business for local venues as well as tourism partners.

Additionally, Governor Kemp signed a bill forming the Interagency Council on Homelessness for Chatham-Savannah, designed to coordinate resources and improve support for our unhoused neighbors. This is an important move toward addressing homelessness through collaboration and long-term solutions.

Other communities benefiting from the legislation include Bryan County, Rincon, Tybee Island, and Long County—reflecting the shared progress and priorities across our region.

Governor Kemp shared his optimism for the future, stating, “This region has enjoyed incredible growth in recent years and that will continue to be the case. We’ve seen over 160 economic development projects bring almost 28,000 new jobs and $14.5 billion of investment to this region of our state.”

In addition to bills supporting our local communities, the Governor also signed six healthcare-related measures expanding access to IVF treatments and services for individuals with disabilities.

These developments are a testament to our region’s growing influence and the value of strong partnerships between local leadership and the State Capitol. The Savannah Area Chamber will continue to advocate for policies that support business growth, quality of life, and regional prosperity.

To read more about each of the signed bills, click here.