Q&A: State Legislative Session Demystified

Alright, alright, alright, it’s time to take a deep dive into what a “Legislative Session” is. While the bulk of this blog is Georgia-specific, this quick guide can also support readers in other states interested in joining the conversation and activating your voice when your state’s session starts.

What is Georgia's Legislative Session?

The Legislative Session is the law-making period of the Georgia General Assembly. The General Assembly comprises two chambers, the House of Representatives (180 Representatives) and the Senate (56 Senators), each elected by Georgia voters every two years. Collectively, Senators and Representatives can be referred to as "legislators."

The Georgia Constitution mandates that the General Assembly begins Session on the second Monday in January each year for no longer than 40 days in the aggregate.

How does a bill become a law?

Legislators (a.k.a. lawmakers) take the ideas from a legislative committee, advocacy org, or citizen - you and I - and then decide whether or not they want to sponsor a bill (a.k.a. a piece of legislation) addressing this need or idea. This decision can either result in the creation of a new law or a bill that will change existing law - either decision can significantly impact us!

What happens if an issue I support doesn’t pass after the 40th day?

You’re in luck - this session (2023) is the first year of the Georgia General Assembly's latest biennial. So, it could still have a chance next year. Sessions are held in two-year increments known as biennials, meaning legislation introduced in the first year that fails to pass can return the second year. But if your issue of importance doesn’t make it to the governor to be signed into law, it must be refilled next session.

During the legislative session, what is a committee?

Every bill introduced in the General Assembly is assigned to a committee. Simply put, a committee is a group of legislators appointed to cover a specific subject matter. The committee chairman decides which bills will receive a hearing. When a bill or resolution is called up for a hearing, legislators, members of the public (US -- You and I), and lobbyists are allowed to address the committee. Our input can help educate the committee about the issue, motivate committee members to vote a certain way and provide content for potential amendments to the bill.

Oh, We Aren’t Done! … After the respective introductory chamber approves the legislation, the bill goes through the entire committee process again in the other chamber (either the House or the Senate).

What are Floor Sessions?

Each legislative day, the House and Senate meet to introduce, discuss, and vote on the day’s issues. Additionally, members (legislators/lawmakers) are granted time to speak on issues of particular importance (e.g., education, religious freedom, social justice) and honor their constituents. Most bills and resolutions that reach the floor for a vote receive bipartisan support.

NOTE: Although some bills are heavily debated, bills are rarely amended on the House or Senate floor. That’s why we need to show our support or opposition for a bill while in committee!

Friends, I published this intro video to the 2020 Georgia legislative session.

Though some of the referenced issues are no longer relevant, there are still some gems to put in your Civic Engagement Treasure Chest. Right?

Disclaimer: Because I’m based in Georgia, most of my situational-specific content is centered here. But the tactics and tips for engagement can transfer across state lines and at the federal level. Need help making these tips and tricks real for you? I’m here to advise. Let’s Connect!