GEORGIA - If you own a home, pay child support, or hate going to the dentist, the rules just changed in your favor. While everyone was watching the ball drop for 2026, the Georgia General Assembly was busy implementing a slate of new laws that officially kicked in on New Year's Day. Unlike some bureaucratic updates that don’t affect daily life, this batch hits close to home—literally.
From a major win for homebuyers to a digital revolution in dental care, here are the 5 laws now effective in Georgia as of January 1, 2026.
1. The "Hidden" Home Warranty Fix (SB 112)
If you bought a house in Georgia prior to 2026, you might have lost the HVAC warranty simply because you forgot to fill out a form. That ends now.
- The Law: Manufacturers of residential HVAC systems can no longer require you to "register" a product to keep the warranty valid.
- The Big Change: If you buy a home in 2026 that has an existing HVAC warranty, it automatically transfers to you (the new owner). No paperwork, no transfer fees, and no "gotcha" loopholes.
2. Teledentistry is Finally Legal (HB 567)
Georgia has long required an in-person visit for dental exams, which was a hassle for rural residents. The "Teledentistry Act" brings the state into the modern era.
- The Law: Licensed dentists in Georgia are now authorized to practice "teledentistry."
- The Impact: You can now have an initial consultation or a check-up for minor issues via video call. Even better? Insurance companies in the state are now required to cover these virtual visits just like in-person ones.
3. The "Parenting Time" Child Support Shift (SB 454)
This is arguably the most significant change for divorced parents in a decade. The final phase of this bill, effective Jan 1, 2026, changes the math on child support.
- The Law: Georgia has adopted a "Parenting Time Adjustment" formula.
- The Change: Previously, child support was calculated largely on income. Now, the court is required to factor in the actual amount of time a non-custodial parent spends with the child. If you are an active parent, the law now financially recognizes those direct expenses (food, transportation, housing) in the support calculation.
4. You Can Now Save Tax-Free for Disasters (HB 511)
With storm seasons getting more intense, the state is giving taxpayers a new financial shield.
- The Law: Georgians can now open a "Catastrophe Savings Account."
- The Perk: You can contribute money to this account to cover insurance deductibles or uninsured losses from a natural disaster. The money you put in is deductible from your state taxable income, and the interest it earns is tax-free—provided you use it for a qualified disaster expense.
5. Insurance Companies Can't "Ghost" You (SB 35)
In recent years, many homeowners received non-renewal notices from their insurance carriers with barely enough time to find a new policy. The state has stepped in to stop the scramble.
- The Law: Insurance companies are now required to give you 60 days' notice (doubled from the previous 30 days) if they intend to cancel or non-renew your homeowner's policy.
- Why It Matters: Finding coverage in 2026 can be difficult; this extra month gives homeowners a crucial fighting chance to secure a new policy before a lapse occurs.
The "America First" Plate
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New Option: As of January 1, drivers can choose a new specialty license plate featuring the American flag and the slogan "America First." Proceeds from the tag go directly to the state's general fund.
