Georgia NOW News for Saturday Jan. 10 and Sunday Jan. 11, 2025

Georgia leaders are weighing in on a fast-moving international and domestic news cycle after the U.S. launched military strikes in Venezuela, an operation the Trump administration says resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. Georgia’s congressional delegation is split, with Sen. Raphael Warnock and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene criticizing the action, while Rep. Mike Collins praised the strikes. Back home, concerns are growing weeks after a bio lab fire in Conyers, where ash samples showed traces of chromium that experts warn could pose serious health risks. In northwest Georgia, opposition is mounting to a revived PFAS liability bill that critics say would shield carpet companies from lawsuits tied to forever chemicals. An Atlanta journalist deported to El Salvador says he continues reporting remotely as community members keep sending tips. As the 2026 legislative session approaches, lawmakers are expected to revisit major education policies, while a sweeping reparations report in Fulton County estimates billions in harm to Black residents and prompts similar efforts in other cities. Federal student loan wage garnishment is also resuming for borrowers in default, even as protests continue in Atlanta over the death of Renee Good, who was shot by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. Tune in 24/7 to Georgia NOW! Grab the app or listen online at heargeorgianow.com. #HearGeorgiaNow #GeorgiaNews #GaPol #Venezuela #Immigration #ICE #PFAS #EducationPolicy #Reparations #StudentLoans #AtlantaNews