2026 Legislative Session Update
The Georgia Association of Broadcasters actively monitored a number of key legislative proposals during the 2026 session, advocating on behalf of member stations and working closely with lawmakers to protect broadcasters’ rights, access, and operations.
Bills Passed & Awaiting Governor’s Signature
SB 540 – Online Internet Safety / AI Disclosures
This Senate Majority Caucus priority bill establishes certain disclosure requirements related to conversational AI services. GAB closely monitored the bill throughout the legislative process, including amendments and potential additions, to ensure no language negatively impacting broadcasters was included.
HB 1230 – Drone Restrictions Near Sensitive Areas
This legislation restricts the operation of unmanned aircraft systems over places of incarceration and within 400 feet of certain ticketed events. GAB worked directly with the bill sponsor to secure important protections for broadcasters, including clear exemption language and key wording changes such as the addition of “knowingly and,” helping ensure responsible use without unintended consequences for news gathering.
Bills Monitored That Did Not Pass
GAB also tracked several bills that presented potential concerns for broadcasters but ultimately did not pass:
- HB 154 – Initially related to emergency medical services, this bill was later replaced with daylight savings time language but did not receive a final vote.
- SB 230 – A condominium-related bill that at one point raised concerns around public records access; it ultimately did not advance.
- SB 398 – Addressed virtual peeping offenses but failed after the House and Senate could not agree on final language.
- SB 423 – Proposed campaign finance restrictions on out-of-state contributions; the bill was tabled.
SB 482 – Mug Shot & Booking Records Access
This bill would have significantly changed how the public and media request booking photos and videos, including requiring in-person, notarized requests with identifying information. GAB was heavily engaged on this legislation, providing testimony in both chambers and working closely with Chairman Brian Strickland to develop broadcaster carveouts. Through these efforts, multiple exemptions were successfully added, including language placing GAB protections into Georgia code. Despite this progress, the bill ultimately did not move forward.
HB 1223 – Law Enforcement Video Records
This bill sought to limit access to certain law enforcement audio and video recordings depicting death or distress. GAB worked with Chairman Joseph Gullett to include amendments that improved access through a judicial process and provided broadcaster considerations. While some progress was made, the bill did not advance out of committee, and portions of its language were later incorporated into SB 482.
HB 1235 – Political Advertising Disclosure Requirements
This proposal would have required campaigns receiving significant out-of-state funding to include specific disclaimers in advertisements. GAB engaged with the bill sponsor to address concerns, and the bill ultimately did not move forward.
