In a significant move to support Georgia's active-duty military personnel, Gov. Brian P. Kemp signed Senate Bill 109 into law last week. This bill, spearheaded by Sen. Ed Harbison (D–Columbus), addresses the exclusions faced by service members from group life insurance policies. The new legislation comes as an assurance of financial protection for military families, prohibiting denials or restrictions on coverage simply because an individual is serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. However, the law maintains an exception for deaths directly caused by acts of war or related hazards.
“As a former Marine and a long-time advocate for our veterans and service members, I’ve always believed that those who serve our nation with honor should never face undue barriers—especially when it comes to something as essential as life insurance. It was extraordinarily moving to witness this legislation be signed into law alongside the late Sgt. Fraiser’s father and family members,” Sen. Harbison told Senate Press. Inspired by the death of Sgt. Brandon Tyrese Fraiser, this bipartisan effort drew unanimous support in both the state's House and Senate, despite the tragic catalyst that urged the penning of this bill. Celebrating alongside the family of the late Sgt. Fraiser, Harbison, a former Marine himself, recognized the bill as a stride toward treating Georgia’s military with "the fairness and dignity they deserve."
Harbison's consistent dedication to veterans and service members is evident through his legislative track record. With a personal military background, he's been an advocate in the Senate for initiatives supporting those who've committed their lives to national service. The passage of SB 109 signifies another milestone in his ongoing pursuit to honor the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families.
The new law stands as a tribute to the late service member Sgt. Fraiser carries personal significance for those who worked tirelessly to see it enacted. Recognizing the collaborative efforts that made this possible, Sen. Harbison credited Senate Press, saying, “SB 109 offers critical financial protection to Georgia’s military families and ensures our service members are treated with the fairness and dignity they deserve. I want to thank Gov. Kemp, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, my senate colleagues, and my fellow servicemen and women for their hard work in getting this legislation signed.”
