(GA. NEWS NETWORK)
*Over 120 new state laws are set to take effect July 1 following this year’s General Assembly session. The legislation includes tougher criminal penalties, including making pimping and pandering automatic felonies. Other measures expand consumer protections, update medical cannabis laws, and allow banks to delay suspicious transactions to help prevent elder fraud. Education changes include new computer science and math requirements, expanded Pre-K access, and workforce development programs. The new laws also address issues ranging from feral hog hunting and delivery robots to imported shrimp labeling and public safety.
*Georgia employers are actively seeking workers for jobs that require physical presence, according to a study by Indeed. Biz-journals-dot-com reports healthcare roles are in high demand due to ongoing shortages and an aging population. Technology and skilled trades are also among the top industries for job opportunities in 2026. Remote workers generally earn lower salaries than in-person workers, with executives being an exception.
*Columbus Police officials say K-9 Havoc has been reunited with his handler after surgery following injuries in an officer-involved shooting. Officers say the K-9 officer was shot while helping officers track a murder suspect, the dog taking the brunt of the injuries during the incident. After undergoing surgery at the Auburn Veterinary Hospital in Alabama, WTVM reports Havoc is recovering well and is now back with his handler, Corporal Brent Wilson, as the dog begins the healing process.
*A Loganville police officer is being credited for helping save a man’s life. Officer Crystal Citron pulled a man through a window after his home on Bay Creek Road caught fire. The rescue was made before firefighters arrived at the scene.
*The GBI is investigating a Henry County SWAT shooting that hospitalized an 89-year-old man. Authorities say John McPherson Senior refused commands to drop a weapon, retreated into a room, then raised a long gun toward officers. Two SWAT officers opened fire, and McPherson was taken to a hospital with injuries. The officers were serving aggravated assault warrants for two other people at the house.
*