Georgia was among 45 states and the District of Columbia that enacted 437 laws and resolutions related to immigration last year, according to a new report by the National Conference of State Legislatures.

That is up 64 percent from the 267 laws and resolutions passed in 2012.

Last year, Gov. Nathan Deal signed into law Senate Bill 160, which is aimed at blocking illegal immigrants from obtaining state driver’s licenses and other public benefits.

The state’s Republican legislative leaders have not announced plans to take up any major immigration-related bills this year.

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Democrats in the Georgia House of Representatives walked out of the House chamber on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, during Legislative Day 39 at the Georgia State Capitol in protest over a bill limiting resources for gender-affirming care for state inmates. Republicans maintain an 11-seat majority in the House. Democrats hope to shrink that majority and perhaps take control of the chamber in 2026.
(Miguel Martinez/ AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez/AJC

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Instructor Daniel Jean-Baptiste reminds students to "measure twice, cut once" while using a hand saw at the Construction Ready accelerated summer program at Westside Works in Atlanta on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. The program provides training for careers in construction and the skilled trades. (Abbey Cutrer/AJC)

Credit: abbey.cutrer@ajc.com