Georgia NOW News for Monday Jan. 12, 2026

Georgia is seeing a shift in weather and policy as unseasonably warm conditions give way to freezing temperatures across southeast Georgia and the Lowcountry, with wind chills dropping into the 20s. At the same time, many Georgians are feeling financial strain as higher Affordable Care Act premiums take effect following the expiration of enhanced tax credits. In coastal Georgia, nonprofits are receiving nearly $1 million to expand preventive health care services, while the 2026 legislative session gets underway with several new lawmakers taking office. Education and public health issues are also in focus. A teachers group is suing DeKalb County schools over contract requirements, while state leaders are expanding access to opioid overdose kits in public schools. In Pine Mountain, history was made as the town swore in its first female mayor. And in Atlanta, kava bars offering alcohol-free social spaces are drawing attention, even as experts urge moderation and scrutiny around kratom products. Tune in 24/7 to Georgia NOW! Grab the app or listen online at heargeorgianow.com. #HearGeorgiaNow #GeorgiaNews #WinterWeather #HealthCareCosts #GaPol #Education #PublicHealth #LocalGovernment #AtlantaNews