May 29, 2026

SB 489 Changes Effective July 1, 2026

Governor Brian Kemp signed Senate Bill 489 into law on May 11, 2026, enacting changes impacting the Judges of the Probate Courts Retirement Fund of Georgia and revising several court-related fees that support the Fund.

The legislation grants the Board of Commissioners authority to set monthly dues within statutory limits while also updating revenue sources tied to marriage licenses, civil filings, and certain fines and bond forfeitures. These changes are intended to strengthen the long-term stability of the Fund while supporting future benefits and administrative operations.

Statutory Dues Language

Beginning July 1, 2026, the Board of Commissioners may establish monthly member dues between $105 and $150. Any dues amount considered by the Board must take into account actuarial recommendations, the financial soundness of the Fund, and other relevant factors outlined in the statute.

Governor Kemp signs Bill; JPCRF Bill 489 Signed into Law

At the May 2026 Board meeting, no increase to the current dues rate was approved.

The legislation also provides that members cease paying dues after 30 years of contributions.

Changes to Court Remittance

SB 489 also revises several remittance amounts directed to the Fund, including:

  • Increasing the share of marriage license fees remitted to the Fund from 20% to 25%
  • Increasing the portion of civil filing fees remitted to the Fund from $2 to $5 
  • Increasing certain criminal and quasi-criminal fines and bond forfeiture remittances from $3 to $5 

To assist courts with implementation, the Fund’s Court Administrators have distributed informational letters and updated remittance forms to active courts throughout the state. Copies of these materials are also available on the Fund website.

The first submission using the updated remittance structure should reflect collections received in July 2026 and remitted in August 2026.

Judges and court staff should review their internal accounting procedures, case management system settings, and remittance practices to ensure compliance with the changes effective July 1, 2026.

 

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