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GA SB443
GA SB443Offenses Against Public Order; the punishment for the offense of obstructing highways, streets, sidewalks, or other public passages; increase
summary
Introduced
01/29/2026
01/29/2026
In Committee
02/02/2026
02/02/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
AN ACT To amend Article 2 of Chapter 11 of Title 16 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to offenses against public order, so as to increase the punishment for the offense of obstructing highways, streets, sidewalks, or other public passages; to provide for enhanced punishment in certain instances; to authorize civil liability for damages; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
AI Summary
This bill amends existing Georgia law to increase the penalties for obstructing public passages like highways, streets, and sidewalks. Previously, such an offense was considered a misdemeanor, but this bill elevates it to a "high and aggravated" misdemeanor, meaning it's a more serious type of misdemeanor. Crucially, if the obstruction leads to someone getting injured or property being damaged, the offender will now face felony charges, punishable by a fine of at least $5,000 or imprisonment for at least five years, or both. Furthermore, individuals convicted of this offense can also be held civilly liable, meaning they can be sued for damages caused by their actions, in addition to any criminal penalties.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (17)
John Albers (R)*,
Jason Anavitarte (R)*,
Lee Anderson (R)*,
Timothy Bearden (R)*,
Max Burns (R)*,
Jason T. Dickerson (R)*,
Clint Dixon (R)*,
Drew Echols (R)*,
Frank Ginn (R)*,
Steve Gooch (R)*,
Russ Goodman (R)*,
Billy Hickman (R)*,
Mike Hodges (R)*,
Randy Robertson (R)*,
Brian Strickland (R)*,
Carden Summers (R)*,
Rick Williams (R)*,
Last Action
Senate Judiciary Subcommittee (16:00:00 2/9/2026 450 CAP) (on 02/09/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/72639 |
| BillText | https://www.legis.ga.gov/api/legislation/document/20252026/240915 |
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