Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp told a business group on Wednesday that he’ll propose $1.8 billion in additional spending on infrastructure, as well as expand health care training for dentists and physicians, showing how the state’s $11 billion in surplus cash is giving the Republican the power to spend big even as state revenues slow.
Kemp also told the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, meeting at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, that he’ll need more than a year to follow through on a pledge to limit lawsuits, and that he wants to make it harder for workers to unionize at the big developments Georgia is subsidizing.
“If we want to maintain this incredible position we’re in today for another generation, we need to make smart moves right now to secure that future,” Kemp said, arguing his plans would keep Georgia’s economy humming.
GEORGIA GOV. KEMP APPOINTS LAUREN CURRY AS FIRST WOMAN CHIEF OF STAFF
Wednesday’s speech by the second-term incumbent was a meaty preview of his Thursday State of the State address. Kemp promised more to come Thursday, including a likely proposal to raise pay for public employees and teachers.
Republican House Speaker Jon Burns of Newington, also speaking Wednesday, again voiced openness to expanding health care coverage to low-income adults through Georgia’s Medicaid program.
“Expanding access to care for lower income working families through a private option in a fiscally responsible way that lowers premiums is something we will continue to gather facts on in the House,” Burns said.
Kemp says he wants to allot $1.5 billion to the Georgia Department of Transportation before June 30 to speed planned roadwork and establish a freight infrastructure program. Of that money, $200 million would go to cities and counties, increasing what the state sends local governments to maintain their own roads and bridges.
Kemp said he also wants to invest another $250 million in the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority, which loans money to local governments for…
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