Karen graduated from Life University in 1984. She lives in Spalding County with her husband Marty and their son, Michael.  She also serves as Chair of GCA’s Education Committee, Treasurer of the GCA-PAC, and chairwoman of State Planning and Community Affairs. She attends Open Range Church in Griffin.

Karen is a chiropractor and has served as Chairwoman of the Georgia Board of Chiropractic Examiners. She owns the Mathiak Chiropractic Center.


Karen I. Mathiak was elected in 2016 to represent Georgia District 73 in the Georgia House of Representatives. She has served 4 terms in this role. 

Candidate website

Supports HB 880 to align with federal law, enabling military spouses to work without a local license if holding a valid out-of-state license, submitting an expedited application, and meeting specific conditions, thereby easing their employment transition to Georgia.

Supports HB 880 to align with federal law, enabling military spouses to work without a local license if holding a valid out-of-state license, thereby easing their employment transition to Georgia.

Supports doubling state employees' paid parental leave to 240 hours to enhance family bonding and attract a superior public workforce.

Plans to expand the Georgia Joint Defense Commission from 19 to 23 members, incorporating educational, industry, public, and research representatives, and to appoint the Economic Development Commissioner as the new chairperson.

Plans to expand the Georgia Joint Defense Commission from 19 to 23 members

Supports modernizing licensing laws for various contractors, revising board member requirements, altering plumber and conditioned air contractor regulations, expanding continuing education, and providing operational continuity for businesses after a licensee's death.

Supports House Bill 904 which would modernize licensing laws for various contractors, revise board member requirements, alter plumber and conditioned air contractor regulations, and expand continuing education

Supports legislative changes to refine general contracting licensure, including categorization, financial thresholds for commercial members, meeting frequency, financial responsibility for residential applicants, and strict adherence to permit application processes with penalties for non-compliance.

Supports legislative changes to refine general contracting licensure

Supports raising the negotiation threshold for public road contracts to $500,000, easing public comment requirements, and allowing longer modular transporters with a permit.

Supports raising the negotiation threshold for public road contracts to $500,000,

Plans to restructure the State Board of Registration for Foresters, making it independent and financially accountable, with oversight on licensing fees and authority to enforce regulations through fines.

Plans to restructure the State Board of Registration for Foresters, making it independent and financially accountable

Opposes companies receiving incentives from recognizing unions without secret ballots, sharing employee info without consent, or imposing these practices on subcontractors, mandating repayment for non-compliance, effective January 1, 2025, with oversight by the Department of Community Affairs.

As a State Representative, she passed Senate Bill 366, which prevents companies that receive "economic development incentives" from recognizing unions without the use of secret ballot, sharing an employee's contact information without their consent, or forcing subcontractors to do these activities. 

Supports economic growth through a $37.9 billion amended budget with investments in infrastructure, education, housing, and healthcare, including significant funds for workforce housing, Capitol improvements, and state employee benefits.

Supports economic growth through a $37.9 billion amended budget with investments in infrastructure, technology, education, housing, and healthcare, including an increase in funds for retirees, the local road assistance program, and improvements to the buildings on Capitol Hill. 

Supports economic growth in Georgia, aligning with the governor to fund workforce housing, infrastructure, and development programs to attract and retain businesses, with significant investments in rural areas and low-interest loans for water projects.

Supports economic growth and wants to fund workforce housing, infrastructure, and development programs to attract and retain businesses, with significant investments in rural areas and low-interest loans for water projects.

Supports tax relief for Georgians; plans to lower income tax, double homestead exemption, and increase child tax deduction, aiming to boost economic success by returning funds to taxpayers.

Helped pass HB 1015, which lowers income tax, double homestead exemption, and increase child tax deduction, aiming to boost economic success by returning funds to taxpayers.

Plans to invest in the economy by increasing state employee salaries, enhancing election security, and upgrading Georgia's transportation infrastructure, pending Governor Kemp's approval of the FY 2025 budget.

Supports legislative efforts to alleviate economic burdens on Georgians by doubling the statewide homestead exemption, reducing property taxes for primary residences, and addressing the increasing costs of homeownership.

Supports doubling the statewide homestead exemption, reducing property taxes for primary residences, and addressing the increasing costs of homeownership.

Supports easing job transitions for military spouses in Georgia by endorsing a bill for license reciprocity and expedited application, enhancing employment opportunities for those relocating with servicemembers.

Supports easing job transitions for military spouses in Georgia by endorsing a bill that allows military spouses to practice their jobs without a license in periods of transition, enhancing employment opportunities for those relocating with members of the military.

Supports amending the law to permit certain local governments to form agreements enabling a special district to levy up to a 1% transportation tax, with provisions for non-participating municipalities and a potential six-year agreement duration.

The candidate's website says, "Inflation is ravaging the American economy, in large part, because Washington has gone on an unprecedented spending spree since Joe Biden took office."

Said "Inflation is ravaging the American economy, in large part, because Washington has gone on an unprecedented spending spree since Joe Biden took office."

Supports enhancing state employees' and teachers' benefits by doubling paid parental leave to promote family bonding and attract a skilled public workforce.

Supports Senate Bill 384 to enhance state employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, establishing the Georgia as a Model Employer Program for inclusive hiring and retention practices, with mandatory agency plans and annual progress reports.

Supports Senate Bill 384 to enhance state employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities

Supports doubling the statewide homestead exemption to $4,000 for state, county, and school taxes, aiding homeowners with increasing costs, applicable to primary residences, addressing the exemption's stagnation over the years.

Supports doubling the statewide homestead exemption to $4,000 for state, county, and school taxes, aiding homeowners with increasing costs.

The candidate's website says, "Senate Bill 340, which would amend current law related to the Georgia Agricultural Tax Exemption to extend the sales and use exemption to diesel exhaust fluid used for agricultural purposes;"

Supports Senate Bill 340, which would amend current law related to the Georgia Agricultural Tax Exemption to extend the sales and use exemption to diesel exhaust fluid used for agricultural purposes.

The candidate's website says, "Senate Bill 469, which would revise the maximum account balance allowed related to contributions to savings trust accounts for higher education expenses. The bill would increase the income tax deduction cap related to higher education savings trust account contributions;"

Supports  Senate Bill 469, which would increase the income tax deduction cap related to higher education savings trust account contributions

Supports extending tax credit programs for historic structure rehabilitation and revitalization zones, with new deadlines and clarified criteria for building certification by the Department of Community Affairs.

Supports extending tax credit programs for historic structure rehabilitation and revitalization zones

Supports revising judicial salaries to align with federal district judges' pay, with varying percentages for different courts, and includes provisions for locality pay and a transition period for current judges to opt into the new salary structure.

Supports revising judicial salaries to align with federal district judges' pay, with varying percentages for different courts

Plans to restructure the forestry regulatory board, enforce compliance through fines, and index licensing fees to inflation.

Supports updating local government regulatory fee laws to ensure fees are used solely for regulatory activities, not general operations, and mandates fees for extensive renovations, valued at $75,000 or more, to be calculated by square footage.

Supports updating local government regulatory fee laws to ensure fees are used solely for regulatory activities

Supports economic growth through significant investment in transportation, allocating funds for infrastructure, freight network enhancement, local road improvements, and state-owned rail line upgrades to boost efficiency and integration.

Supports economic growth through significant investment in transportation and allocating funds for infrastructure.

Supports modernizing Georgia's banking laws through HB 876, which updates terms, adds transaction approval processes, and sets registration mandates for foreign banks, while streamlining licensing language.

Supports Senate Bill 412 to raise fines for charities breaching regulations, with up to $10,000 for a single infraction and $100,000 for multiple in one or related proceedings, enforceable administratively or through superior court by the Secretary of State.

Supports Senate Bill 412 to raise fines for charities breaching regulations, with up to $10,000 for a single infraction and $100,000 for multiple infractions.

- As a State Representative, she passed Senate Bill 366, which prevents companies that receive "economic development incentives" from recognizing unions without the use of secret ballot, sharing an employee's contact information without their consent, or forcing subcontractors to do these activities. 
- Supports economic growth through a $37.9 billion amended budget with investments in infrastructure, technology, education, housing, and healthcare, including an increase in funds for retirees, the local road assistance program, and improvements to the buildings on Capitol Hill. 
- Supports economic growth and wants to fund workforce housing, infrastructure, and development programs to attract and retain businesses, with significant investments in rural areas and low-interest loans for water projects.
- Helped pass HB 1015, which lowers income tax, double homestead exemption, and increase child tax deduction, aiming to boost economic success by returning funds to taxpayers.
- Plans to invest in the economy by increasing state employee salaries, enhancing election security, and upgrading Georgia's transportation infrastructure, pending Governor Kemp's approval of the FY 2025 budget.
- Supports doubling the statewide homestead exemption, reducing property taxes for primary residences, and addressing the increasing costs of homeownership.
- Supports easing job transitions for military spouses in Georgia by endorsing a bill that allows military spouses to practice their jobs without a license in periods of transition, enhancing employment opportunities for those relocating with members of the military.
- Supports amending the law to permit certain local governments to form agreements enabling a special district to levy up to a 1% transportation tax, with provisions for non-participating municipalities and a potential six-year agreement duration.
- Said "Inflation is ravaging the American economy, in large part, because Washington has gone on an unprecedented spending spree since Joe Biden took office."
- Supports enhancing state employees' and teachers' benefits by doubling paid parental leave to promote family bonding and attract a skilled public workforce.
- Supports Senate Bill 384 to enhance state employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities
- Supports doubling the statewide homestead exemption to $4,000 for state, county, and school taxes, aiding homeowners with increasing costs.
- Supports Senate Bill 340, which would amend current law related to the Georgia Agricultural Tax Exemption to extend the sales and use exemption to diesel exhaust fluid used for agricultural purposes.
- Supports  Senate Bill 469, which would increase the income tax deduction cap related to higher education savings trust account contributions
- Supports extending tax credit programs for historic structure rehabilitation and revitalization zones
- Supports revising judicial salaries to align with federal district judges' pay, with varying percentages for different courts
- Plans to restructure the forestry regulatory board, enforce compliance through fines, and index licensing fees to inflation.
- Supports updating local government regulatory fee laws to ensure fees are used solely for regulatory activities
- Supports economic growth through significant investment in transportation and allocating funds for infrastructure.
- Supports modernizing Georgia's banking laws through HB 876, which updates terms, adds transaction approval processes, and sets registration mandates for foreign banks, while streamlining licensing language.
- Supports Senate Bill 412 to raise fines for charities breaching regulations, with up to $10,000 for a single infraction and $100,000 for multiple infractions.

Economy

The candidate's website says, "Senate Bill 422, which would increase the limit on the amount of investments an electric membership corporation could make or maintain in a gas affiliate from 15 to 25 percent of its net utility plant;"

The candidate's website says, "House Bill 300, which would require solar power facility agreements to provide procedures for the decommissioning of a solar power facility;"

The candidate's website says, ", which would authorize specified local authorities that operate public water or sewer systems to dispose of or grant easements in specified instances;"

The candidate's website says, ", which would increase the limit on the amount of investments an electric membership corporation could make or maintain in a gas affiliate from 15 to 25 percent of its net utility plant;"

Wants to increase the limit on the amount of investments an electric membership corporation could make or maintain in a gas affiliate from 15 to 25 percent of its net utility plant

The candidate's website says, ", which would require solar power facility agreements to provide procedures for the decommissioning of a solar power facility;"

Plans to require solar power facility agreements to provide procedures for the decommissioning of a solar power facility

The candidate's website says, "House Bill 409, which would authorize specified local authorities that operate public water or sewer systems to dispose of or grant easements in specified instances;"

Supports House Bill 409, which would authorize specified local authorities that operate public water or sewer systems in specified instances.

- Plans to require solar power facility agreements to provide procedures for the decommissioning of a solar power facility
- Supports House Bill 409, which would authorize specified local authorities that operate public water or sewer systems in specified instances.

Energy & the Environment

Said, "This week, my House colleagues and I overwhelmingly passed bipartisan legislation aimed at modernizing and refining healthcare regulations throughout Georgia... House Bill 1339 would stand as a cornerstone in this effort, proposing a comprehensive overhaul of the state's certificate of need (CON) laws... HB 1339 would present a series of impactful healthcare reforms to enhance accessibility and affordability for all Georgians... Additionally, the legislation seeks to streamline the certificate of need application process... Further, HB 1339 would expand CON exemptions... Also, psychiatric or substance abuse inpatient programs or beds for Medicaid and uninsured patients would be exempt from CON requirements... Moreover, the legislation would introduce measures to address noncompliance through mechanisms such as increased monetary penalties and exemption revocation. HB 1339 would also bolster rural healthcare through the expansion of rural hospital tax credits and the establishment of the Comprehensive Health Coverage Commission, which would be tasked with advising the governor, General Assembly and DCH on healthcare access and quality for low-income and uninsured communities in Georgia. This important legislation would not only address critical healthcare access and efficiency issues across the state but would also signify a significant step forward in ensuring equitable and effective healthcare delivery for all Georgians."

The candidate's website says, "The “No Patient Left Alone Act,” would permit a minor or an adult who is admitted to a hospital or long-term care facility, to have a parent, guardian, person or caregiver to be physically present with them at all times... HB 663 would not require these designated caregivers to be allowed into operating rooms, isolation rooms, behavioral health settings or other typically restricted areas or to be present during administration of emergency care... Also, the Department of Public Health would be prohibited from taking action against hospitals and facilities for granting access to visitors... Patients who are being treated in hospitals and long-term care facilities can be in incredibly vulnerable states, and they deserve to have loved-ones or caregivers present with them in the room for support and advocacy... This legislation would change that to ensure that patients are never left alone without their family or caregiver by their side."

Supports the right for patients to have an essential caregiver present at all times in long-term care facilities, as mandated by the "No Patient Left Alone Act," regardless of emergency declarations.

Supports the "No Patient Left Alone Act," mandating essential caregivers' presence for patients in long-term care, irrespective of emergencies or governmental policies, prompted by COVID-19's restrictive visitation impacts.

Supports legislation to enhance Georgia's behavioral healthcare by offering loan repayment to certain mental health professionals, incentivizing Medicaid patient treatment, and addressing the state's mental health provider shortage.

Supports establishing a loan repayment program for behavioral health practitioners in Georgia, incentivizing treatment of Medicaid patients to address the state's mental health provider shortage.

Plans to establish the Georgia Commission on Maternal and Infant Health to enhance perinatal care, reduce maternal and infant mortality, and inform policy with recommendations by June 30, 2026.

The candidate's website says, "The pandemic has taken its toll on our healthcare workers... It's time to take a long look at hospitals and clinics in Georgia and insure we have the healthcare professionals that we need."

Plans to mandate hospitals in the state to link to federal disclosures, update annually by July 1, and follow a uniform template by July 1, 2025; also requires hospital boards to choose from three candidates for vacancies.

Plans to reform district health director roles, mandating medical licenses or public health degrees, with the commissioner appointing interim directors without board approval until permanent ones are confirmed by county health boards.

The candidate's website says, "...remove the requirement of the step therapy protocol for the treatment of serious mental illness... The bill would require acceptance of payment for health care items or services regardless of when authorization is obtained..."

Plans to mandate state hospitals to post federal disclosures via a template by the Department of Community Health, updated annually by July 1, with a uniform reporting template ready by December 31, 2024, and hospital boards to fill vacancies from three candidates.

Said, "This week, my House colleagues and I overwhelmingly passed bipartisan legislation aimed at modernizing and refining healthcare regulations throughout Georgia, with a strong emphasis on addressing the unique healthcare challenges faced by rural communities."

Said, "On Crossover Day, we gave unanimous passage to legislation that would allow for a designated essential caregiver to be present with a patient or resident of a hospital or long-term care facility while they are receiving care."

Said, "The House advanced legislation this week to improve behavioral healthcare for Georgians... to ensure individuals have access to the resources and support needed to effectively address their mental health concerns..."

The candidate's website says, ", which would prohibit an individual's vaccine status from being used to determine priority status on an organ transplant waiting list;"

Supports amending Georgia's Pharmacy Practice Act to permit pharmacists to modify prescriptions, with documentation and patient consent, under specific conditions.

The candidate's website says, "which would require state health plan insurers to continue coverage when a hospital that is in-network becomes out-of-network with the insurer before the end of the plan year. This would apply to contracts on and after July 1, 2024;"

Supports House Bill 434 to license radiologist assistants in Georgia, enhancing healthcare efficiency and reducing patient wait times, with the bill passing 152-2.

Supports updating Georgia's cosmetic laser service laws to include new procedures and revises supervision, allowing assistant practitioners more autonomy, reflected in the near-unanimous House vote for HB 502.

Supports the establishment of licensure for radiologist assistants in Georgia to enhance healthcare efficiency and attract healthcare professionals, as evidenced by the bill's passage with a vote of 152-2.

The candidate's website says, "How much longer can short-term band-aids stave off Medicare’s long-term bleed?"

The candidate's website says, "To say the Covid pandemic disrupted our healthcare system would be a massive understatement."

Said, "The House has focused its efforts on improving and expanding mental health services across our state in recent years, and this week, we continued those efforts by giving final passage to"

The candidate's website says, ", which would add disabled persons to the central caregiver registry. A “disabled person” would be defined as someone who is mentally or physically incapacitated, has Alzheimer’s disease or dementia;"

The candidate's website says, "Senate Bill 430, which would repeal requirements for COVID-19 liability warning signs placed either at the entrances or premises or on entry tickets issued for public gatherings;"

Said, "As we continue our commitment to enhancing mental health services in our state, the House gave passage to"

The candidate's website says, "House Bill 1072, which would address pharmaceutical expiration dates... The bill states the General Assembly's intent that settlement proceeds and appropriations would be proportionately distributed based on program participation rates;"

The candidate's website says, ", which would repeal requirements for COVID-19 liability warning signs placed either at the entrances or premises or on entry tickets issued for public gatherings;"

The candidate's website says, "House Bill 991, which would reauthorize the Hospital Medicaid Financing program until June 30, 2030;"

The candidate's website says, ", which would extend deadlines for the implementation of updated adult mental health licensure rules and regulations;"

The candidate's website says, ", which would reauthorize the Hospital Medicaid Financing program until June 30, 2030;"

The candidate's website says, "...which would address pharmaceutical expiration dates, as well as the ratios of pharmacy technician to pharmacists in connection with the drug repository program..."

Supports enhancing mental health services in Georgia by backing Senate Bill 480, which offers loan repayment to providers serving in underserved areas, pending Governor Kemp's signature.

The candidate's website says, "HB 1339 would present a series of impactful healthcare reforms to enhance accessibility and affordability for all Georgians... Additionally, the legislation seeks to streamline the certificate of need application process... Further, HB 1339 would expand CON exemptions... Also, psychiatric or substance abuse inpatient programs or beds for Medicaid and uninsured patients would be exempt from CON requirements... Moreover, the legislation would introduce measures to address noncompliance through mechanisms such as increased monetary penalties and exemption revocation. HB 1339 would also bolster rural healthcare through the expansion of rural hospital tax credits and the establishment of the Comprehensive Health Coverage Commission, which would be tasked with advising the governor, General Assembly and DCH on healthcare access and quality for low-income and uninsured communities in Georgia. This important legislation would not only address critical healthcare access and efficiency issues across the state but would also signify a significant step forward in ensuring equitable and effective healthcare delivery for all Georgians."

Supports updating Georgia's definition of "cosmetic laser services" to include new dermatological technologies and revising supervision requirements for assistant laser practitioners, as evidenced by the near-unanimous passage of HB 502.

Supports updating Georgia's definition of "cosmetic laser services" to include new dermatological technologies and revising supervision requirements for assistant laser practitioners through HB 502.

The candidate's website says, "House Bill 945, which would require state health plan insurers to continue coverage when a hospital that is in-network becomes out-of-network with the insurer before the end of the plan year... This would apply to contracts on and after July 1, 2024;"

Supports House Bill 945, which would require state health plan insurers to continue covering health care until the end of the year when a hospital that is in-network becomes out-of-network.

Supports the right for patients to have a designated essential caregiver present during their stay in hospitals or long-term care facilities, except in restricted areas, through the "No Patient Left Alone Act."

The candidate's website says, "Senate Bill 455, which would remove the requirement of the step therapy protocol for the treatment of serious mental illness... The bill would require acceptance of payment for health care items or services regardless of when authorization is obtained..."

Supports Senate Bill 455, which would remove the requirement of the "step therapy protocol" for the treatment of mental illness.

Supports legislation (SB 480) offering student loan repayment to mental health and substance use providers serving underserved areas in Georgia, pending Governor Kemp's signature.

As State Representative, passed SB 480 offering student loan repayment to mental health and substance use professionals serving underserved areas in Georgia. 

Supports establishing the Georgia Commission on Maternal and Infant Health to improve perinatal care and address maternal and infant mortality through policy recommendations by June 30, 2026.

Supports establishing the Georgia Commission on Maternal and Infant Health to improve maternal and infant care and reduce maternal and infant mortality.

Supports revising district health director selection, requiring medical licensure or a public health master's degree, and allowing interim appointments by the Public Health Commissioner without board approval.

The candidate's website says, "House Bill 576, which would prohibit an individual's vaccine status from being used to determine priority status on an organ transplant waiting list;"

Supports House Bill 576, which would prohibit an individual's vaccine status from being used to determine priority status on an organ transplant waiting list

The candidate's website says, "Senate Bill 456, which would add disabled persons to the central caregiver registry. A “disabled person” would be defined as someone who is mentally or physically incapacitated, has Alzheimer’s disease or dementia;"

Supports Senate Bill 456, which would add disabled persons to the central caregiver registry.

The candidate's website says, "House Bill 1083, which would extend deadlines for the implementation of updated adult mental health licensure rules and regulations;"

Supports House Bill 1083, which would extend deadlines for the implementation of updated adult mental health licensure rules and regulations

- Supports the right for patients to have a designated essential caregiver present during their stay in hospitals or long-term care facilities, except in restricted areas, through the "No Patient Left Alone Act."
- Supports Senate Bill 455, which would remove the requirement of the "step therapy protocol" for the treatment of mental illness.
- As State Representative, passed SB 480 offering student loan repayment to mental health and substance use professionals serving underserved areas in Georgia. 
- Supports establishing the Georgia Commission on Maternal and Infant Health to improve maternal and infant care and reduce maternal and infant mortality.
- Supports revising district health director selection, requiring medical licensure or a public health master's degree, and allowing interim appointments by the Public Health Commissioner without board approval.
- Supports House Bill 576, which would prohibit an individual's vaccine status from being used to determine priority status on an organ transplant waiting list
- Supports amending Georgia's Pharmacy Practice Act to permit pharmacists to modify prescriptions, with documentation and patient consent, under specific conditions.
- Supports Senate Bill 456, which would add disabled persons to the central caregiver registry.
- Supports House Bill 1083, which would extend deadlines for the implementation of updated adult mental health licensure rules and regulations

Healthcare

Supports the "AI Transparency Protection Act," HB 986, to criminalize creating and distributing deceptive AI-generated content, such as deep fakes, to interfere with elections, with penalties including fines and imprisonment.

Supports enhancing election security by mandating visible watermark features on Georgia's paper ballots, to be implemented by November 2024, with costs accounted for in the current budget, addressing voter confidence issues.

Supports legislation banning foreign nationals from donating to political entities and mandates registration and disclosure for agents representing foreign interests before government officials or bodies.

The candidate's website says, "House Bill 977, which would set the risk-limiting audit probability limit at a decreasing percentage beginning with eight percent in 2024 and concluding with a rate of two percent in 2030... The bill would clarify which contests, in addition to specified top of the ballot contests, must be selected for a risk-limiting audit and how they are selected;"

The candidate's website says, ", which would set the risk-limiting audit probability limit at a decreasing percentage beginning with eight percent in 2024 and concluding with a rate of two percent in 2030... The bill would clarify which contests must be selected for a risk-limiting audit and how they are selected;"

Supports a local referendum for establishing the city of Mulberry, with its government structure and election procedures, to be voted on during Gwinnett County's 2024 general primary election.

The candidate's website says, ", which would require election superintendents to electronically send a ballot proof to candidates appearing on the ballot in order for the candidates to verify the information within 24-hours of receipt;"

Supports enhancing election security by allocating $110,000 for watermarks on paper ballots following the passage of House Bill 881.

The candidate's website says, "There are several other noteworthy appropriations contained in the House’s amended budget. HB 915 earmarks $110,000 for the implementation of visible watermarks on all paper ballots to enhance election security, which is a result of the House’s recent passage of"

The candidate's website says, "...with the additional judge being appointed for a term beginning July 1, 2024, and the first election for that judgeship taking place at the 2026 nonpartisan judicial election;"

The candidate's website says, "The fourth judge would be appointed for a term beginning July 1, 2024... Their successor would be elected at the nonpartisan judicial election in 2026;"

The candidate's website says, "House Bill 906... The third judge would be appointed for a term beginning July 1, 2024... Their successor would be elected at the nonpartisan judicial election in 2026."

Said, "We have made a lot of progress moving our state forward... I need your help to insure our vote counts..."

Supports Senate Bill 368 to ban foreign nationals from donating to political entities and mandates registration and disclosure for agents of foreign principals engaging with government officials.

Supports Senate Bill 368 to ban foreign nationals from donating to political entities and mandates registration and disclosure for agents of foreign principals engaging with government officials

Supports legislation (HB 986) criminalizing the creation and distribution of AI-generated deep fakes intended to disrupt elections, with penalties including fines and imprisonment, while permitting AI content with proper disclosure.

Supports HB 986 which criminalizes the creation and distribution of AI-generated deep fakes intended to disrupt elections, with penalties including fines and imprisonment, while permitting AI content with proper disclosure.

Supports enhancing election security by mandating visible watermark features on official Georgia ballots, to be implemented by November 2024, funded by this year's amended budget, addressing voter confidence issues.

Supports enhancing election security by mandating visible watermark features on official Georgia ballots

Supports a referendum for establishing the city of Mulberry, with local elections for a city council and mayoral appointment by the council, limiting council terms, and creating a municipal court with a chief judge.

The candidate's website says, "House Bill 1207, which would require election superintendents to electronically send a ballot proof to candidates appearing on the ballot in order for the candidates to verify the information within 24-hours of receipt;"

Supports House Bill 1207, which would require election superintendents to electronically send a ballot proof to candidates appearing on the ballot in order for the candidates to verify the information within 24-hours of receipt

- Supports Senate Bill 368 to ban foreign nationals from donating to political entities and mandates registration and disclosure for agents of foreign principals engaging with government officials
- Supports HB 986 which criminalizes the creation and distribution of AI-generated deep fakes intended to disrupt elections, with penalties including fines and imprisonment, while permitting AI content with proper disclosure.
- Supports enhancing election security by mandating visible watermark features on official Georgia ballots
- Supports a referendum for establishing the city of Mulberry, with local elections for a city council and mayoral appointment by the council, limiting council terms, and creating a municipal court with a chief judge.
- Supports House Bill 1207, which would require election superintendents to electronically send a ballot proof to candidates appearing on the ballot in order for the candidates to verify the information within 24-hours of receipt

Voting & Elections

Supports legislation to protect Georgia's minors by criminalizing online grooming with up to five years' felony imprisonment, applicable to offenses involving Georgia minors, regardless of the crime's location.

Supports legislation to protect Georgia's minors by criminalizing online grooming , applicable to offenses involving Georgia minors, regardless of the crime's location.

Supports SB 395, "Wesley's Law," to exempt opioid antagonists like Narcan from dangerous drug classification, permit possession and use on school grounds, mandate availability in public buildings, and protect those who administer from liability for overdose emergencies.

Supports creating a felony for selling drugs with fentanyl, regardless of the seller's knowledge, and criminalizing possession of pill presses for illegal drug manufacturing, as part of strengthening accountability for drug-related deaths.

Supports increasing penalties for repeated illegal emergency service requests, or "swatting," and outlines offenses for firearm misuse, including drive-by shootings, to enhance public safety and conserve first responder resources in Georgia.

Supports increasing penalties for repeated illegal emergency service requests

Supports legislation allowing human trafficking victims to vacate convictions for first-offense drug possession if it resulted from their victimization, ensuring their reintegration with a clean record.

Supports incentivizing gun safety in Georgia through tax credits for secure storage purchases and safe handling courses, with a $3 million annual cap and a $300 lifetime limit per taxpayer to promote responsible gun ownership.

Supports legislation enabling human trafficking victims to vacate convictions for first-offense controlled substance possession if the crime resulted from trafficking, with provisions for court petitions, prosecutorial consent, and restricted access to criminal records.

Supports legislation imposing criminal penalties on those using electronic means to groom minors for sexual offenses or human trafficking, with felony imprisonment of one to five years, extending to crimes involving Georgia minors regardless of where the offense occurs.

Supports bipartisan legislation mandating government buildings with AEDs to also provide opioid antagonists, like Naloxone, and establish training policies to prevent overdose deaths, especially amid the fentanyl crisis.

Supports bipartisan House Bill 1035, enabling opioid antagonist vending machine sales and shielding good-faith dispensers from liability, to enhance Georgia's overdose response and save lives without promoting drug use or illegal activities.

Supports legislation providing one-time illness-specific insurance, including a cash benefit and potential income replacement, for first responders with occupational PTSD to alleviate treatment costs and safeguard their service and well-being.

Supports enhancing protections for domestic violence and human trafficking victims through a confidential address program and stricter court order regulations to improve their safety and privacy.

Supports establishing a confidential address program for victims of violence, prohibiting certain mutual protective orders, and enabling dating violence protective orders to enhance victim safety and privacy.

Supports expanding incest laws to include adoptive relationships, aiming to protect all children and facilitate prosecution of sexual violence against minors, with the bill passed by the House awaiting the governor's signature.

Supports expanding human trafficking awareness and education in Georgia, mandating additional businesses to display hotline information, and requiring massage board members to undergo annual training to bolster state efforts against trafficking and aid victims.

Supports House Bill 451, mandating additional insurance for first responders with work-related PTSD, including a cash benefit and disability benefits, to address their mental health and enhance community safety.

Supports House Bill 451, mandating extra insurance for first responders with job-induced PTSD, providing a $3,000 benefit and disability income after 90 days, to enhance their mental health and community safety in Georgia.

Supports the Colton-McNeill Act to increase penalties for cruelty against disabled minors, enhancing legal protections and ensuring stricter punishment for offenders to deter mistreatment and promote justice.

Supports the "Utility Worker Protection Act," imposing stricter penalties for assaults on utility workers during their duties, effective July 1, 2024.

Supports establishing juvenile treatment court divisions as alternatives for handling juvenile delinquency and CHINS cases, with involved parties' consent and structured oversight, planning, and performance measurement, effective July 1, 2024.

The candidate's website says, "Chief Justice Boggs commended the efficacy of American Rescue Plan Act grants in managing caseloads, noting an average 11 percent decrease in pending serious violent felony cases across Georgia... However, he also underscored the pressing challenges faced by the judiciary, including shortages in court reporters, prosecutors, public defenders, court staff and sheriffs’ deputies... Emphasizing the necessity of proper compensation for Georgia’s judges to attract and retain talent... Furthermore, Chief Justice Boggs drew our attention to the concerning rise in threats against judges nationwide. He applauded the efforts of Georgia’s law enforcement officers and highlighted a joint letter from the Conference of Chief Justices and the Conference of State Court Administrators urging federal lawmakers to enhance judicial safety measures. Chief Justice Boggs also proposed legislation, modeled after similar laws in 31 other states, aimed at safeguarding the personal information of judges to ensure their safety and security... Lastly, Chief Justice Boggs stressed the importance of locally based lawyers in rural communities to provide essential civil legal services, particularly to survivors of domestic violence..."

The candidate's website says, "Chief Justice Boggs drew our attention to the concerning rise in threats against judges nationwide... He applauded the efforts of Georgia’s law enforcement officers... Chief Justice Boggs also proposed legislation, modeled after similar laws in 31 other states, aimed at safeguarding the personal information of judges to ensure their safety and security... Lastly, Chief Justice Boggs stressed the importance of locally based lawyers in rural communities to provide essential civil legal services, particularly to survivors of domestic violence..."

Supports Senate Bill 328 to revise Peace Officers' Fund, raising dues and benefits, mandating full cost payment for prior service, and increasing death and disability benefits.

The candidate's website says, "Senate Bill 420, which would prohibit a person who is not a U.S. citizen or legal resident, is an agent of a foreign government designated as a foreign adversary and has been out of the country for a period of time preceding the acquisition of land from acquiring directly or indirectly any possessory interest in agricultural land or land within a 10-mile radius of a military installation... Violations would be considered a felony with punishment of a fine of less than $15,000 and imprisonment of between one to two years..."

Said, "This week, the House took legislative action to combat the growing fentanyl crisis in our state. My colleagues and I unanimously passed this important, life saving measure,"

The candidate's website says, "...which would prohibit a person who is not a U.S. citizen or legal resident, is an agent of a foreign government designated as a foreign adversary...from acquiring directly or indirectly any possessory interest in agricultural land or land within a 10-mile radius of a military installation... Violations would be considered a felony with punishment of a fine of less than $15,000 and imprisonment of between one to two years..."

The candidate's website says, "...allow the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) to restore an accused person back to mental competency, so that they could stand trial in an appropriate facility within a jail..."

Said, "My House colleagues and I began the week by taking up a bipartisan effort to enhance public safety and impose stricter penalties for criminal offenses, particularly those associated with the act of “swatting” and gang activity."

Supports enabling the Department of Human Services to utilize child abuse records for locating and aiding missing or exploited children, and expanding access to these records to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Said, "My House colleagues and I also championed legislation aimed at fostering a culture of firearm safety and responsible gun ownership throughout Georgia with the passage of"

Supports House Bill 472 to extend enhanced disability benefits to certain public safety personnel, with a slight increase in employer contribution rates and a total state cost of $6,000.

The candidate's website says, "House Bill 994, which would hold boat operators liable for injury or damage when negligence occurs on the part of the operator... Boat livery owners would be required to carry insurance with coverage of at least $250,000 per person per occurrence and $500,000 per event;"

The candidate's website says, "...which would expand enhanced disability benefits to sworn officers, commissioners and deputy commissioners employed by the motor carrier compliance division of the Department of Public Safety... The bill is certified by the Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts as a fiscal retirement bill..."

The candidate's website says, "..., which would hold boat operators liable for injury or damage when negligence occurs on the part of the operator. A rented boat operator would be held liable for negligent operation. ..."

Supports landlords using off-duty law enforcement to execute writs of possession if on-duty officials can't within 14 days, at landlord's cost, with advance notice to authorities.

Supports House Bill 909 to automatically seal first offenders' records post-July 1, 2024, unless status is revoked, allowing court and law enforcement access. Permits pre-2024 exonerated first offenders to request record sealing.

The candidate's website says, "House Bill 984, which would allow certified law enforcement officers within the Department of Insurance and the office of the safety fire commissioner to use a department vehicle while off-duty under certain circumstances..."

The candidate's website says, ", which would allow certified law enforcement officers within the Department of Insurance and the office of the safety fire commissioner to use a department vehicle while off-duty under certain circumstances..."

The candidate's website says, "Chief Justice Boggs commended the efficacy of American Rescue Plan Act grants in managing caseloads, noting an average 11 percent decrease in pending serious violent felony cases across Georgia... However, he also underscored the pressing challenges faced by the judiciary, including shortages in court reporters, prosecutors, public defenders, court staff and sheriffs’ deputies... Emphasizing the necessity of proper compensation for Georgia’s judges to attract and retain talent..."

Supports enhancing road safety by legislating clear protocols for drivers when passing USPS vehicles, aiming to protect postal workers and reduce accidents.

Supports House Bill 881 to revise PAQC oversight, specifying discipline for incapacitated DAs or SGs, setting medical leave discipline thresholds, and outlining appeals processes for PAQC decisions to superior court and the Supreme Court of Georgia.

The candidate's website says, "...legislation addressing antisemitism...adding antisemitism as a category covered by our hate crimes law...This bill immediately became law upon Gov. Kemp’s signature."

Supports amending PAQC rules to eliminate Supreme Court oversight, clarify discipline grounds for DAs and SGs, and set appeal processes for PAQC decisions to superior court, with immediate Supreme Court appeal rights.

Supports strengthening hate crime laws by including antisemitism, defined by IHRA standards, in state legislation, and requiring its consideration in enforcement by state agencies, in response to rising antisemitic incidents.

The candidate's website says, "The budget includes $3.2 million for the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities to establish the Macon Crisis Stabilization Diagnostic Center... Additionally, HB 916 provides $500,000 to assist homeless Georgians through... behavioral health services... The budget also supports veterans with funding for a coordinator to aid homeless veterans and $1 million for behavioral health services for active-duty military personnel and veterans through the Georgia Veterans Service... $1 million to enhance forensic and mental health services at the state's Child Advocacy Centers."

The candidate's website says, "Senate Bill 472, which would enact the Combatting Organized Crime Act and would revise current law relating to high-volume third-party sellers, sellers and third-party sellers;"

Plans to mandate juvenile courts to collect and share foster care case data, maintain an accessible docket, and expedite the filing of petitions to terminate parental rights for legislative review and improved case management.

Said, "My colleagues and I also took action to continue our efforts to support victims of domestic violence and human trafficking."

The candidate's website says, ", which would enact the Combatting Organized Crime Act and would revise current law relating to high-volume third-party sellers, sellers and third-party sellers;"

The candidate's website says, "...which would direct the Administrative Office of the Courts to provide written notice to each state or local government entity that possesses personally identifiable information of a judge or justice to restrict access to that information... The office would develop a process to regularly identify local entities that possess personally identifiable information and would establish a procedure for protected persons to submit information for inclusion in a personally identifiable information database;"

The candidate's website says, "Senate Bill 348, which would change the timeframe from 180 days to 60 days for an individual to be considered unattended by a physician in an untimely or suspicious death circumstance... The bill would clarify that no individual would be deemed unattended by a physician while they are a resident of a long-term care facility;"

Said, "We also passed legislation this week to aid in our fight against human trafficking in Georgia."

The candidate's website says, "...change the timeframe from 180 days to 60 days for an individual to be considered unattended by a physician in an untimely or suspicious death circumstance..."

- Supports increased public safety funding, including raises for law enforcement, re-entry programs for inmates, and resources for domestic violence and sexual assault centers, emphasizing crime prevention, victim support, and professional retention in policing.
- Supports House Bill 993 which criminalizes online grooming with felony charges with up to five years' felony imprisonment.
- Supports Senate Bill 395, "Wesley’s Law," to exempt opioid antagonists like Narcan from being classified as dangerous drugs for overdose prevention, allowing possession and administration on school property and requiring public schools to maintain a supply.
- Supports passing Senate Bill 465, which imposes strict penalties for fentanyl-related offenses, including manufacturing and distribution
- Supports Senate Bill 493, which imposes strict regulations on drone usage by sex offenders 
- Supports SB 493, enhancing minor protection and regulating Georgia's sex offender registry, including drone misuse penalties, privacy safeguards, and registry removal for qualifying elderly offenders, aiming for safer communities.
- Supports strengthening Georgia's incest laws by including adopted children, ensuring all children are protected from sexual violence, and facilitating the prosecution of such crimes.
- Supports bipartisan efforts to enhance public safety by imposing stricter penalties for "swatting," gang activity, and firearm-related crimes to deter illicit behavior and support law enforcement in Georgia.
- Supports fostering firearm safety in Georgia through tax credits for safe handling courses and secure storage devices
- Supports legislation imposing criminal penalties on those who electronically groom minors for sexual offenses or human trafficking
- Supports House Bill 1170 mandating opioid antagonists like Naloxone in Georgia's government buildings with AEDs to prevent overdose deaths, alongside educational and training policies for proper administration.
- Supports the Colton-McNeill Act to increase penalties for cruelty against disabled minors, enhancing legal protections and ensuring stricter punishment for offenders to deter abuse and promote justice.
- Supports bipartisan legislation to permit vending machine sales of opioid antagonists like Narcan, shield dispensers from liability, and expand access to lifesaving drugs
- Supports providing first responders with one-time, illness-specific insurance for occupational PTSD, including a $3,000 benefit and post-diagnosis income replacement, to alleviate treatment costs and support their continued service.
- Supports expanding anti-human trafficking measures in Georgia, including education, awareness, and mandatory posting of hotline information in additional businesses
- Supports establishing juvenile treatment court divisions as alternatives for handling juvenile delinquency and Children in Need of Supervision (CHINS) cases
- Supports House Bill 1033, enhancing penalties for crimes against utility workers on duty, including contractors.
- Supports legislation mandating the protection of judges' personal data by requiring entities to restrict access upon notice and to lift restrictions when judges leave office, while also establishing a process for managing such information.
- Supports Senate Bill 342 to enable the Department of Human Services to use abuse records for locating and aiding missing or exploited children, and to grant the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children access to such records.
- Supports Senate Bill 533, which would allow the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) to restore an accused person back to mental competency, so that they could stand trial
- Supports allowing landlords to hire off-duty law enforcement officers to carry out evictions when on-duty officials are unavailable within 14 days of request, with advance notice to local authorities.
- Supports allowing drivers to show their license on a device to police without surrendering the device or consenting to a search, and not requiring an electronic version if a physical license is presented.
- Supports automatic sealing of records for individuals sentenced under the First Offenders Act 
- Supports updating traffic laws to include safety measures for passing USPS vehicles during mail delivery, aiming to protect postal workers and drivers after numerous accidents
- Supports legislation combating antisemitism by incorporating the IHRA's definition into state law, mandating its consideration in enforcement, and classifying it under hate crimes
- Supports Senate Bill 401 mandating juvenile courts to collect and share data on foster care cases, maintain accessible dockets, and expedite termination of parental rights filings
- Supports House Bill 1073, which would repeal hearing and notice provisions relating to zoning decisions for halfway houses, drug rehabilitation centers or drug dependency treatment centers