Governor Brian P. Kemp signed Lt. Governor Duncan’s top legislative priorities for the 2022 Legislative Session into law, furthering the Lt. Governor’s commitment to enhance local public safety initiatives, promote mental health collaboration with law enforcement and increase resources for aged-out foster youth.

Lawmakers and key supporters gathered at the State Capitol to celebrate the bipartisan “LESS” Crime Act, “Georgia Behavioral Health and Peace Officer Co-Responder Act” and the “Fostering Success Act” receiving final approval. Lt. Governor Duncan praised Governor Kemp for signing these important measures into law and working to strengthen communities in each corner of the state.

“Georgia’s emergence as a global economic powerhouse and hub for opportunity must be paired with diligently crafted legislation that sustains the expansive growth of our state,” said Lt. Governor Duncan. “I commend Governor Kemp for moving forward these critical policies that will improve communities across Georgia and keep us on track for continued success.”

“LESS” Crime Act (SB 361)

Sponsored by Sen. Larry Walker (R – Perry) and passed with overwhelming support in both the House and Senate, SB 361 establishes a dollar-for-dollar state income tax credit for Georgia taxpayers to directly donate to their community's public safety initiatives through an affiliated law enforcement foundation with a statewide cap of $75 million.

Read more about SB 361 here.

"Georgia Behavioral Health and Peace Officer Co-Responder Act” (SB 403)

Carried by Sen. Ben Watson (R – Savannah) and championed by Lt. Governor Duncan as an alternative approach to mental health emergency response efforts, SB 403 promotes law enforcement partnerships with mental health professionals by setting up the framework for co-response teams through Georgia's Community Service Boards (CSBs).

Read more about SB 403 here.

“Fostering Success Act” (HB 424)

Sen. Bill Cowsert (R – Athens) carried HB 424 which could generate up to $20 million per year for foster youth making the transition into adulthood through a dollar-for-dollar state income tax credit. Funds generated will provide crucial support to Georgia’s aged-out foster youth by incentivizing donations to qualifying organizations that provide wraparound services for this sector of Georgia’s population.

Read more about HB 424 here.