(GA. NEWS NETWORK)
*Georgians renting from out-of-state landlords now have the right to a local point of contact for property concerns. A new state law requires non-resident landlords of single-family homes or duplex rentals to provide assistance for maintenance requests and rent issues. This legislation aims to improve accessibility and responsiveness for tenants dealing with out-of-state property owners. The Columbus Ledger-Enquirer reports landlords residing in Georgia are exempt from this requirement, which addresses the common situation of corporate and investor-owned rentals in the state. Non-compliant property owners may face enforcement actions, fines, or rental restrictions, and tenants can file complaints with the Georgia Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division if needed.
*The Swainsboro community is mourning the deaths of two high school students from the Class of ’26. The Burke County sheriff’s Office says they, along with another person, were killed when two cars slammed into a tree that had fallen across State Highway 56 Saturday night. Nykeria Johnson and Kencerio Walker were recent graduates of Swainsboro High School.
*Horse carriage tour operators in Savannah are suing the city over an ordinance that regulates operating temperatures. The city council decided last August that horse-drawn carriages can’t operate once temperatures reach 85 degrees. State Rep. David Jenkins says the ordinance threatens the viability of the carriage horse industry.