Budget Signing + May Primary Elections
We’ve had another great week meeting with Georgians across the state and sharing the work we accomplished in the House to lower taxes, expand access to healthcare, invest in education and pass a balanced, fiscally responsible budget.
On Tuesday, I had the honor of joining Governor Kemp as he signed the 2025 budget. While Washington continues its out-of-control spending—here in Georgia, we’re telling a different story. Yet again, our state has made historic investments in the future of our children, families, healthcare system and infrastructure—all while keeping hard-earned money in the pockets of our taxpayers.
The House worked diligently throughout the 2024 session to ensure our budget included funding for school safety, teacher raises, law enforcement pay raises, Pre-K education and expanded access to mental healthcare—reiterating our commitment to making Georgia the best place to live, work and raise a family.
Joining Governor Brian Kemp for the signing of the FY 2025 budget
This week was Teacher Appreciation Week! Dayle and I had the opportunity to celebrate the passage of the official state crustacean alongside Mr. John Cassell and his class at Effingham College and Career Academy. These students showed outstanding dedication in their development of this legislation—and played a significant role in bringing much-needed awareness to one of Georgia’s most vital coastal resources.
We’re grateful for Mr. Cassell and our educators across the state whose tireless efforts and commitment to their students prepare the next generation of Georgians for success!
Celebrating the official state crustacean–the Georgia White Shrimp–with Mr. John Cassell’s class at Effingham College and Career Academy
It’s no secret that Dayle and I love spending time with our grandchildren, so we were excited to have our granddaughter’s class join us in Atlanta for a tour of the Capitol!
Dayle and I giving a tour of the State Capitol with our special guests–Anna Grace, Jonah, and Ava.
On Wednesday night, I joined members of the House Republican Caucus in Augusta to continue our work to safeguard and expand our Majority ahead of the November elections. We’re developing a best-in-class political operation that involves a strategic ground game, extensive minority outreach and advanced geo-targeting—but we need everyone on board!
Our caucus appreciates your continued support in spreading the conservative message throughout Georgia. Click HERE to learn more about how you can join our efforts.
While I was in Augusta, I had the pleasure of speaking to members of the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce. We’re excited about the work accomplished in the House to support the statewide business community. From tax cuts and licensure reform to infrastructure investment and workforce development initiatives—we have laid the groundwork for Georgia to maintain our designation as the “No.1 Place for Business.” Thank you to Columbia Chamber President and CEO Russell Lahodny for the invitation!
With members of the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce
Just as a reminder, early voting is underway across the state for the May 21st primary elections. We have an incredibly important Georgia Supreme Court race on the ballot this election cycle, and I’m proud to endorse Justice Andrew Pinson. Now more than ever, we need justices who will uphold the law, defend the Constitution, and protect our Georgia values.
You can read more about Justice Pinson's race HERE. Your voice at the ballot box matters—so I encourage everyone to get out and vote on or before May 21st!
Finally, On Thursday night, I had the honor of attending JAMES Magazine’s Most Influential Georgian’s reception to recognize my good friend Commissioner Russell McMurry as the 2024 Most Influential Georgian.
Commissioner McMurry’s dedicated service to our state has been transformational in making Georgia one of the best in the nation for the freight and logistics industry. He works every day to make Georgia a better place for our businesses, families and citizens—and I’m proud that his efforts and accomplishments were recognized by leaders across the state.
Two of our caucus members were also recognized for their legislative contributions during the 2024 session. Congratulations to House Majority Leader Chuck Efstration and Majority Caucus Vice Chairman Houston Gaines for being named JAMES Magazine’s 2024 Legislators of the Year!
Honoring the recipients of JAMES Magazine’s Most Influential Georgians awards
Dayle and I are wishing a Happy Mother’s Day to all of the women and mother figures who have made a lasting impact on our families and communities! We hope everyone has a beautiful day spent with loved ones.
My Best,
Speaker Jon Burns