One Busy Summer!By Angela Holland, AE, GACS President
This summer was certainly an active one! Your fellow GACS members enjoyed several days of camaraderie together in Amelia Island. This year's educational sessions were a highlight, bringing together guest speakers from across the country, as well as right here in our own backyard. From leaders and industry experts to voices from the Georgia Capitol and beyond, attendees heard a wide range of perspectives on topics including leadership, legislative and regulatory updates, industry insights and partnerships, and so much more. Shortly after the convention, all eyes turned to Georgia politics as voters headed to the polls for a very contentious run-off election. The next morning, legislators were expected in Atlanta for a short special session. Although short, it was heated. Governor Kemp’s special session proclamation originally included redistricting and election ballots/administration. A couple of weeks later, he expanded the agenda to include three more issues: property tax relief, ratification of the temporary suspension of the state motor fuel tax, and local referendum authorizations (necessary to implement tax relief at the local level). 
During the first day of the special session, Speaker Jon Burns and Lt. Governor Burt Jones announced that redistricting would no longer be considered. During the next few days, legislators reported to the state capitol, even on Saturday – a day sandwiched in between Juneteenth and Father’s Day, to introduce 99 bills allowing both chambers to debate property tax policy at length. Ultimately, two bills passed during the week-long session: SB3EX and HR3EX.
SB3EX extends authorization of the current voting system through January 1, 2028, and will remain in place for the 2026 election cycle. The bill also establishes a committee to recommend Georgia’s next voting system, requires automatic hand recounts in statewide constitutional officer races when the margin between the top two candidates is 0.5% or less, and limits the Secretary of State’s role in choosing future equipment. HR3EX simply ratifies Governor Kemp’s May 15 through June 2nd motor and diesel fuel tax exemption. Under current laws, anytime a Governor uses an executive order to suspend fuel taxes, the suspension is required to be ratified during the next session of the General Assembly, whether it is the regular or a special session. After the session convened, our attention quickly shifted to a federal issue that could have a significant impact on GACS members: SNAP. On May 8, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) finalized new rules strengthening the minimum stocking requirements for SNAP retailers. The changes include increased variety and depth requirements, expanded perishability standards, clearer definitions and compliance expectations, and stronger enforcement and support. For participating SNAP retailers, these new requirements mean reviewing current inventory and determining what changes may be needed to meet the new requirements. And for some, the adjustments could be significant and may even lead them to reconsider whether participation in the program still makes sense for their business. Check out the article for more information on the new requirements: 2026 Changes to SNAP Minimum Stocking Requirements. All while preparing to celebrate America’s 250th Birthday! It has certainly been an active summer, and if the last few months are any indication, there is plenty more to come. As always, GACS will continue to stay engaged, keep an eye on the issues affecting our industry, and work to keep our members informed along the way. For now, I hope everyone had a great summer and is ready for what promises to be another busy season ahead! 
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