Georgia NOW News for Tuesday Jan. 6, 2026

Georgia politics are shifting after Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene resigned from Congress just before midnight Jan. 5, triggering a special election to fill her seat. As lawmakers look ahead to the 2026 legislative session, health care is expected to be a major focus, with proposals tied to Medicaid expansion, rural hospital funding and maternal health. Across metro Atlanta, a Fulton County judge ruled that a landmark oak tree in Johns Creek can be removed, ending a years-long preservation effort, while voters in House District 23 head to the polls for a runoff following the death of Rep. Mandy Ballinger.

Environmental and policy concerns are also drawing attention statewide. Ash samples from last year’s Conyers bio lab fire showed traces of chromium, raising health questions as experts warn about potential carcinogens. Lawmakers are pushing to expand student loan forgiveness for doctors and boost mobile cancer screening in rural areas, where access remains limited. At the Capitol, rising insurance costs are under scrutiny ahead of the session, while local leaders in a small Georgia town say they were blindsided by plans for a proposed federal immigration detention facility they believe their infrastructure cannot support.

Tune in 24/7 to Georgia NOW! Grab the app or listen online at heargeorgianow.com. #HearGeorgiaNow #GeorgiaNews #GaPol #SpecialElection #HealthCare #RuralGeorgia #Environment #InsuranceRates #Immigration #AtlantaNews