Lawmakers at the Georgia State Capitol are facing renewed calls this legislative session to expand healthcare access and lower costs for residents across the state, particularly in rural communities.

Inside the House and Senate chambers, lawmakers marked the start of the legislative calendar with tradition — and change.

Many organizations, residents, and lobbyists showed up at the State Capitol on Monday as lawmakers returned for the first day of the 2026 legislative session.

The hallowed halls of Georgia’s state Capitol were abuzz Monday as lawmakers, lobbyists and everyday citizens flocked to the Gold Dome for the start of the 2026 legislative session.