On Monday, the Georgia General Assembly quickly handled its opening tasks, set the legislative calendar, and introduced a transgender sports bill in the Senate. Sen. Greg Dolezal introduced Senate Bill 1, which aims to ban males from competing on female sports teams and vice versa, with some exceptions noted in the bill. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones supported this bill, claiming it is a matter of common sense and is necessary to protect women’s sports.

Under SB 1, schools and colleges must designate sports teams as male, female, or co-ed based on the participant’s gender at birth. The bill also mandates separate restrooms and changing areas at athletic events and establishes a grievance procedure. This legislation aligns with efforts to protect women’s athletics and stems from recommendations by the Senate Special Committee on the Protection of Women’s Sports.

While the bill was introduced, a coalition of human rights groups protested outside the Capitol, showcasing the struggles faced by transgender individuals in Georgia. If SB 1 is passed, it would add Georgia to the list of 26 states restricting transgender student athletes.

Additionally, the House enacted new rules limiting members to filing no more than 10 bills this session. House Minority Leader Carolyn Hugley voiced opposition to these limits, but Speaker Jon Burns stated their concerns would need to be addressed through other means. There is also a new rule regarding absences, with only personal or family illness being excusable, and no pay for unexcused absences.

On another note, Gov. Brian Kemp plans to deliver his State of the State address on Thursday. Senate Minority Leader Harold Jones II expressed concerns over continued scrutiny of prosecutorial oversight, especially regarding Fulton District Attorney Fani Willis, whose removal from the Trump election interference case raised ethical questions. The Senate is also debating the possibility of subpoenaing Willis.

The General Assembly set a 40-day session calendar, with important dates marked including Crossover Day on March 6 and Sine Die on April 4. The House and Senate will meet Tuesday at 11 a. m. following a chamber event.