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HB 426

RELATING TO THE STABILIZATION OF PROPERTY INSURANCE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Cory Chun and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 426 stabilizes property insurance in Georgia and shifts magistrate elections to nonpartisan, enhancing judicial integrity and benefiting homeowners in hurricane-prone areas.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · HB 426

Summary of House Bill 426: Stabilization of Property Insurance

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 426 aims to stabilize property insurance in Georgia, specifically addressing the challenges faced by property owners, particularly in hurricane-prone areas. The bill seeks to amend existing laws related to the election of magistrates and the conduct of nonpartisan elections for judicial offices, thereby enhancing the governance and operational efficiency of the judicial system.

Key Provisions

  1. Nonpartisan Elections for Magistrates:

    • The bill amends Chapter 10 of Title 15 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated to establish nonpartisan elections for magistrates.
    • Chief magistrates will be elected by county voters in nonpartisan elections, with terms beginning on January 1 following their election.
    • As of July 1, 2025, no local laws allowing partisan elections for magistrates will be enforceable.

  2. Revisions to Election Procedures:

    • The bill revises Chapter 2 of Title 21, which governs elections and primaries, to include nonpartisan elections for various judicial offices, including judges of probate courts and magistrates.
    • Candidates for these offices will not be nominated by political parties and will appear on the ballot in a nonpartisan format during general primaries held in even-numbered years.

  3. Automatic Repeal and Effective Dates:

    • The bill includes provisions for an effective date, a contingent effective date, and automatic repeal of conflicting laws.
    • The effective date for the changes is set for July 1, 2025.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Property Owners: The stabilization of property insurance is expected to benefit homeowners, particularly in areas vulnerable to hurricanes.
  • Judicial Candidates: Candidates for magistrate positions will be affected by the shift to nonpartisan elections, which may alter the dynamics of campaigning and voter engagement.
  • Voters: The general electorate will have the opportunity to participate in nonpartisan elections, potentially leading to a more impartial selection of judicial officers.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: February 12, 2025
  • House Passed: March 4, 2025
  • Senate Passed: March 21, 2025
  • Signed by Governor: May 14, 2025
  • Effective Date: July 1, 2025

Related Legislation

  • SB 1044: This bill serves as a companion to House Bill 426, indicating a broader legislative effort to address similar issues within the state.

This summary provides an overview of House Bill 426, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and the potential impact on various stakeholders within Georgia. The transition to nonpartisan elections for magistrates is a significant change that aims to enhance the integrity and effectiveness of the judicial system while addressing the pressing issue of property insurance stabilization.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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