What We Covered:

During the Legislative Kickoff, GJP provided an overview of key legislation we are advocating for in the 2026 session, including:

SB 207 – Legislation that provides people with arrest or conviction records a fair chance at pursuing careers in licensed industries, while also expanding and streamlining record clearing.

HB 162 – A proposal to modernize Georgia’s First Offender Act so it delivers a true second chance, as originally intended.

We also shared updates on the implementation of the Survivor Justice Act (SJA), a nationally recognized reform passed in the previous legislative session. The SJA works to keep survivors out of the criminal legal system by preventing convictions, reducing sentences, and allowing for resentencing when individuals are criminalized for actions related to their survival. GJP highlighted our partnerships, training efforts, and direct representation of survivors as we work to ensure meaningful implementation of this law.

Advancing Smarter Justice

In addition to legislative priorities, GJP discussed our ongoing efforts to move Georgia toward Smarter Justice through common-sense administrative reforms. This includes initiatives aimed at reducing unnecessary court involvement—such as improving court notices and adopting text reminders to help prevent missed court dates that can lead to arrest warrants or suspended driver’s licenses.

Stay Involved

To learn more about GJP’s policy work, visit our Advocacy page. You can also share the 2026 Legislative Kickoff video with your networks to spread the word about justice reform efforts in Georgia.