Georgia NOW News for Saturday Dec. 20 and Sunday Dec. 21, 2025

Criminal organizations are increasingly using drones to smuggle contraband into prisons across Georgia and the country, prompting calls for expanded authority to detect and counter the devices. A provision in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2026 would give correctional facilities those powers after clearing the U.S. House. New national rankings are also spotlighting Georgia hospitals for maternity care, with seven facilities earning high-performing marks from U.S. News & World Report. Meanwhile, a family-owned manufacturer based in São Paulo plans to invest $4.4 million in Colquitt-Miller County, creating 150 jobs and launching a recycling hub focused on transportation safety products and hard-to-recycle materials. A newly released New York Times recording sheds fresh light on former President Donald Trump’s efforts to overturn Georgia’s 2020 election, capturing him urging then-House Speaker David Ralston to convene a special legislative session. Political scientists say the call reinforces evidence of pressure on state officials, even if it carries no immediate legal consequences. Travelers are also adjusting to full enforcement of REAL ID requirements for domestic flights, with the TSA set to offer a $45 identity verification option for unprepared flyers beginning Feb. 1. Atlanta is preparing to ring in the new year with citywide fireworks and a drone countdown display, including a digital “Peach in the Sky” show just before midnight. In state politics, Dr. Jaha Howard narrowly won a special election for Georgia Senate District 35 and is expected to be sworn in ahead of the 2026 legislative session. Georgia is also joining several states in forming a new higher education accreditation body, a move critics say could politicize access to federal funds. And Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis defended her handling of the Trump election interference case during a tense Senate committee hearing, as lawmakers continue an investigation with no direct disciplinary authority. Tune in 24/7 to Georgia NOW! Grab the app or listen online at heargeorgianow.com. #HearGeorgiaNow #GeorgiaNowNews #GeorgiaNews #GaPol #Prisons #Drones #MaternityCare #EconomicDevelopment #2020Election #RealID #NewYearsEveATL #HigherEducation #FaniWillis #AtlantaNews