Georgia NOW News for Thursday Feb. 19, 2026

The Georgia Public Service Commission has again rejected a petition from environmental groups challenging Georgia Power’s capacity expansion, voting 3–2 against reconsideration as Commissioners Peter Hubbard and Alicia Johnson called for a closer review of natural gas facility certifications. Georgia is also set to land a $600 million synthetic diamond grit manufacturing plant operated by Element Six under a new U.S.-Japan trade deal, a project expected to strengthen domestic semiconductor supply chains and bring high-skilled jobs. On the campaign trail, President Donald Trump is visiting northwest Georgia ahead of the crowded special election in the 14th Congressional District, where early voting is underway in a field of more than 20 candidates to replace former U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, with Election Day set for March 10 alongside several legislative races. Meanwhile, environmental advocates are pushing back after the repeal of the EPA’s 2009 endangerment finding, warning it weakens greenhouse gas oversight. In Albany, Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital has opened phase two of its expanded emergency and trauma center, adding private triage rooms, new treatment bays and a behavioral health emergency unit. And as domestic violence fatalities rise in Georgia, advocates are urging firearm restrictions for those under protective orders and a statewide danger assessment protocol, arguing evidence-based reforms could reduce deaths. Tune in 24/7 to Georgia NOW at georgianow.com. #HearGeorgiaNow #GeorgiaNow #GeorgiaNews #GaPol #EnergyPolicy #EconomicDevelopment #Elections2026 #ClimatePolicy #Healthcare #DomesticViolenceAwareness