Georgia NOW News for Tuesday March 31, 2026

Georgia lawmakers are racing against the clock as major legislation moves in the final days of the 2026 session. The state Senate is pushing for hand-marked paper ballots by the midterms, while House leaders had planned a slower transition closer to 2028. A controversial bill to make district attorneys nonpartisan in five metro Atlanta counties is now headed to the governor’s desk.  Meanwhile, lawmakers are also advancing a proposal that could make it easier for the state to take over financially struggling cities. Activists warn the bill could disproportionately impact diverse and Black-led communities while shifting power away from local governments. And in Paulding County, the future of the City of Hiram hangs in the balance. A last-minute bill could dissolve the city entirely, transferring its assets and authority to the county—sparking concerns about local control, representation, and racial equity. With the legislative session ending April 2, advocates say now is the time for Georgians to speak out. Stay informed on the latest developments at the Capitol—subscribe, share, and follow for more Georgia NOW News. #GeorgiaPolitics #GAPol #GeorgiaNews #ATLNews #VotingRights #LocalGovernment #MetroAtlanta #PublicPolicy