ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - Georgia’s new $37.7 billion state budget increases funding for key programs such as education, prisons, and Medicaid.

Gov. Brian Kemp signed the fiscal year 2026 budget this week, calling it a continuation of Georgia’s conservative approach to spending. The plan includes $257 million in additional funding for Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids, the joint state and federal health insurance program for low-income residents.

“Just in case anyone out there continues to try to tell people we are not spending more on Medicaid—we are, every single year,” said Kemp.

The state’s expansion comes amid growing concerns about cuts to the program.

Congressional Republicans are proposing sweeping federal budget cuts that could reduce funding for Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and early childhood education initiatives like Head Start.

“If the plans they have pass, we’re here to discuss how this will impact the people,” said U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) at his town hall on Friday.

The meeting brought together several nonprofits at Johnson’s office in DeKalb County, including leaders working in food security, education, and public health. Many expressed alarm at the potential consequences of federal rollbacks.

David Venable, a Georgia father, shared his family’s story. When his young son was diagnosed with leukemia, private insurance wasn’t enough to cover his care.

“Last year, we were living in the hospital,” Venable said. “So many of these [support programs] were there for us, and I don’t know how we would’ve provided everything he needed without Medicaid.”

Johnson echoed those concerns, criticizing what he called a disconnect between millionaire lawmakers and everyday Americans.

“It boils down to ignorance by the people given the most power,” Johnson said, referring to House Republicans pushing the cuts.

Congress has not finalized the legislation. House Speaker Mike Johnson has set a goal to pass the spending bill by Memorial Day, but negotiations remain ongoing.

In the meantime, state officials and community advocates alike say Georgia’s most vulnerable residents could be caught in the crossfire.

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