2026 Georgia Legislative Session Recap: Key Outcomes for Hunters

The 158th Georgia General Assembly has adjourned for the year. After considering thousands of bills, lawmakers passed several important measures that strengthen hunting opportunities, feral hog control, conservation funding, and outdoor access across Georgia.

HB 946 - Feral Hog Control

This bill removes the special permit requirement, making it easier for landowners and hunters to trap and hunt feral hogs on private property. It also authorizes the use of drones to locate hogs and hunt from motorized vehicles on private land. Governor Kemp signed HB 946 into law.

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SB 148 - Hunter Safety Education

This legislation authorizes public schools to offer optional hunter safety courses for students in grades 6–12, covering firearm safety, ethics, and wildlife management. Governor Kemp signed SB 148 into law.

SB 478 - Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program

This bill increases the share of sporting goods sales tax revenue dedicated to land conservation and outdoor recreation projects and extends the program. Governor Kemp signed SB 478 into law.

SB 204 - Firearm Preemption

This measure strengthens Georgia’s statewide firearm uniformity laws and gives individuals and organizations the ability to sue local governments that violate them. Governor Kemp signed SB 204 into law.

SB 420 - Saltwater Fishing Endorsement

The bill creates a new annual offshore fishing endorsement costing $10 for residents and $20 for non-residents to fund research and management of coastal fisheries. Governor Kemp signed SB 420 into law.

Bills That Did Not Pass

  • HB 1148: Updates to the conservation tax credit for landowners (died in the Senate)
  • HB 432: New non-resident turkey hunting permit fee (tabled in the Senate)
  • SB 499 / HB 1324: Removal of state-level penalties for firearm suppressors (failed final passage)

This session delivered meaningful wins for Georgia hunters. We’ll keep you updated on how the new laws are implemented and what’s ahead in 2027.

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