ATLANTA — Georgia lawmakers opened the legislative session Monday at the Capitol in Atlanta, with most action taking place outside the House and Senate chambers. Opening day of the session is typically dominated by ceremony, and the 2016 kickoff was no exception, including a visit from Betty Cantrell, the Georgian named "Miss America" for 2016. Lawmakers are expected to focus on education, proposed constitutional amendments expanding gambling and contentious bills regarding religious freedom during the session.
Georgia lawmakers return to Capitol for sessions first day