Could gold be used as currency in Georgia? A gold bill passed the state Senate

Republican State Sen. Marty Harbin speaks to reporters following the adjournment of the Senate.
Republican State Sen. Marty Harbin speaks to reporters following the adjournment of the Senate on Thursday, March 7, 2025. (Rahul Bali/WABE)

Forget paper money. Georgia senators want to legalize using gold and silver for everyday purchases.

The Senate passed a bill last week that would set up a system for Georgians to buy gold, store it in a depository, and use a debit card to spend it on items such as fast food or milkshakes.

Senators are selling gold as a hedge against inflation of the U.S. dollar, but skeptics say gold doesn’t necessarily protect hard-earned cash from rising prices.