COLUMBUS, Ga. (WTVM) - Several new laws will take effect in Georgia and Alabama beginning Jan. 1, with some enforcing the ban on hemp products in Alabama and others providing financial protection to Georgia homeowners in case of a disaster.

Georgia insurance changes

In Georgia, House Bill 511 will allow the state to create a catastrophe savings account, according to Sen. Larry Walker III.

“We implemented this disaster savings account which is really designed to allow people to save money for repair of their disaster or a loss and to feel comfortable going with a higher deductible on their homeowners insurance to get that homeowners insurance premium down,” Walker said.

House Bill 511 went into effect in July but will apply to tax years beginning Jan. 1, 2026.

Senate Bill 35 will requi

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