The 2026 Session in Review: What Passed, What Didn't, and What It Means

The Georgia General Assembly closed the 2026 legislative session in the early morning hours on April 3, and when the dust settled, Georgia's cities were in a better position than most had expected going in.

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This Week in D.C.

Trump Administration Budget Proposal Includes 10% Cut to Non-defense Spending

Last week, the Trump administration released its FY27 budget proposal, which would cut non-defense discretionary spending by 10%, or $73 billion. It includes significant changes at agencies that impact cities, including the Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Housing and Urban Development, and Department of Transportation
Events

GMA Annual Convention

Registration is open for GMA's 2026 Annual Convention, June 26–June 30 in Savannah. Join city officials from across Georgia for four days of education, networking, and celebration of Georgia cities shining bright.
Viewpoints

Partnership, Not Preemption: The Real Path to More Housing in Georgia

GMA CEO and Executive Director Larry Hanson pushes back on the argument that local zoning is to blame for the state's housing affordability problem — and makes the case for partnership over preemption.

Upcoming Events

Mar
25
Human Resources Administration Certificate (HRAC) Spring 26
Fayetteville
Apr
21
RMEBS On The Road - Atlanta
Atlanta
Apr
21
2026 District 9 Spring Listening Session
Metter
Apr
22
2026 District 12 Spring Listening Session
Flemington
View Full Calendar

In the Spotlight

Online Publication Landing Page

Handbook for Mayors and Councilmembers

GMA's essential guide to serving in Georgia municipal office is getting a top-to-bottom revision. The Handbook for Mayors and Councilmembers is designed to help city elected officials navigate their responsibilities with confidence. Updated chapters are available now, covering ethics and conflicts of interest, suspension and removal of elected officials, and liability of public officials and cities.
Grant and Award Opportunities | Transportation

Safe Streets and Roads for All

The SS4A program funds regional, local, and Tribal initiatives through grants to prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries. Deadline: May 26, 2026

Smart Solutions for City Success

Empowering City Leaders with Knowledge and Skills

The Harold F. Holtz Municipal Training Institute offers city officials a comprehensive learning experience, covering everything from municipal finance and budgeting to ethics and data literacy. Designed to enhance leadership and expertise in local government, this program is a partnership between GMA and the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government—equipping officials with the tools they need to serve their communities effectively.

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Person receiving training certificate.

City Spotlight

Ringgold, located in GMA’s District 1 in Catoosa County, was incorporated in 1847. The city was named after Major Sam Ringgold, a noted member of the Ringgold family who died during the Mexican-American War in 1846 and was honored as a national hero. His legacy is reflected in numerous towns and counties named across the United States. Ringgold is also rich in Civil War history, most notably as the site of the Battle of Ringgold Gap. The historic Ringgold Depot still bears bullet marks from the Great Locomotive Chase.

Fun Fact: During World War II, Ringgold became known as the “Wedding Capitol of the South,” as Tennessee servicemen could easily cross the state line to marry quickly without a blood test requirement.