Georgia NOW News for Friday Jan. 23, 2026

Georgia officials are ramping up preparations for a winter storm expected to bring snow, sleet and freezing rain across parts of the state. Gov. Brian Kemp has declared a statewide emergency, authorized up to 500 National Guard members if needed, and urged residents to prepare and stay off the roads as conditions worsen. Lawmakers are also weighing lighter fare under the Gold Dome, with a bipartisan proposal to name lemon pepper wings Georgia’s official state chicken wing flavor. Meanwhile, veteran groups gathered at the Capitol for the first “Hats on the Hill,” pushing back against legislation they say could allow lawyers to charge veterans for benefits assistance already provided for free. Morris Brown College has resumed normal operations after a reported threat prompted a temporary move to virtual learning, part of a broader pattern of threats targeting HBCUs nationwide. And in Fulton County, questions remain about long-term funding for supportive housing beyond 2027, even as new units move forward. Tune in 24/7 to Georgia NOW. Grab the app or listen online at heargeorgianow.com. #HearGeorgiaNow #GeorgiaNow #GeorgiaNews #WinterStorm #SevereWeather #GaPol #Veterans #HatsOnTheHill #MorrisBrownCollege #HBCUs #HousingCrisis #FultonCounty #AtlantaNews