The Georgia Senate this week, Mar. 30, 2007

g{x Zxz|t fxtx
g{| jxx~

fxtx cx byy|vx ECD Vxwx _xz|t|x byy|vx U|w|z Ttt? Zxz|t GCGAIHIACCEK

Crossover day is long and productive

Finally . . . HOPE Chest gets the votes

\

t has come to the floor of the Senate three times in as many years but perseverance has paid off for Gov. Sonny Perdue, as Senate Resolution 125, sponsored by Sen. Joseph Carter of the 13th passed with bi-partisan support,

45-8 more than enough "super majority" votes to get it on the ballot as a

Constitutional Amendment in November of 2008. The legislation is designed to allow the

people of Georgia to vote to limit lottery expenditures to the state's HOPE Scholarship and

the ever-popular Pre-K program.

Sen. Ed Tarver of the 22nd offered an amendment to the legislation to eliminate the automatic triggers benefit reductions for book allowances and student activity fees if the

lottery proceeds for the HOPE Scholarship ever dip below a certain level language that

passed the General Assembly in 2004 when there was concern that the lottery may not

generate enough money to cover the HOPE Scholarships and PreK program in the future. The amendment passed 42-0.

"It is not a Democratic idea, it is not a Republican idea. It is not an idea that benefits rural areas of

"I'm proud to say that good ideas the state or urban areas of the

come back," Sen. Carter told his colleagues. "Time changes much and a year really does make a

state. It is for all of Georgia." - Sen. Joseph Carter

difference. There is a bi-partisan spirit in this body that I'll tell you, I'm very proud of and I

know that many of you are very proud of.

"This is not about the past. It is not about assessing blame for monies that were spent that we could argue about whether or not they were appropriately spent. It is about the future. Senate Resolution 125 simply will allow Georgia's voters the opportunity to affirm that HOPE and Pre-K should be further protected by ensuring that lottery revenue will be restricted for these programs and these programs only.

"It is not a Democratic idea, it is not a Republican idea. It is not an idea that benefits rural areas of the state or urban areas of the state. It is for all of Georgia . . . Over $8 billion has been spent to make Georgia better and to create better lives for many Georgians."

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx D y GK

IDDs, townships get Senate approval
Sen. Johnny Grant of the 25th proposed legislation that will create the Georgia Smart Infrastructure Growth Act and a companion resolution to create a referendum vote on Infrastructure Development Districts measures that will allow an alternative way for cities and counties to pay for infrastructure by creating the IDDs, which are similar to Tax
Allocation Districts.
These districts currently are used by other states, because they provide a way to transfer the cost of new infrastructure to those who use the infrastructure not just the people who live in the city or area. In practical application, if a new subdivision is built, those who choose to live there voluntarily will agree to pay for that infrastructure through an assessment, much like a condo or homeowners fee.
Under Senate Bill 200 and Senate Resolution 309, these IDDs will collect a true "impact fee," and only those who use the new infrastructure pay for it. This is a significant difference from an impact fee, which ultimately results in an increase in property tax assessments for all the residents of a county.
Sen. David Adelman of the 42nd sponsored legislation that will create an alternative to establishing a new city, offering smaller government that is closer to the people. Senate Bill 89 and its companion piece, Senate Resolution 130, will give residents in an unincorporated area a new option when they contemplate incorporation. Under this proposal, residents can vote to form a town that will make those critical decisions about land use and local zoning, but they still can continue to benefit from the larger tax base of their county. Basic services such as fire, public safety, water and sanitation would continue to be provided by the county.
These Georgia towns will have distinct boundaries with identifying markers and locally elected Boards of Supervisors, who will come from small districts and thus be closer to the people they represent. Because the obligations of a town will be so limited, the cost of running the new town should be minimal. In addition, every new Georgia town will have a mandated cap on the level of property taxes they can levy and can only be annexed or converted to a city with the consent of its residents.
All four pieces of legislation passed with bi-partisan support, and the Constitutional Amendments will be on the November 2008 ballot.
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx E y GK

Attention Super Speeders: Slow Down!
If your speedometer is reading more than 85 miles per hour, either slow down or be prepared to pay. Sen. Ronnie Chance of the 16th introduced Senate Bill 125 on behalf of the Governor to enact a measure that fines persons driving at least 85 miles per hour on any road or
highway a $200 fine, in addition to whatever the price of the ticket issued. A similar fine will be imposed on those driving 75 miles per hour or more on a two-lane road.
All fees collected under this legislation will be deposited into Georgia's general fund with the intent that these monies be used to fund a trauma care system in Georgia.
Earlier this year, in his budget address, Gov. Perdue stated that traffic accidents not only cost billions of dollars every year, but also the lives of over 1,700 people just in Georgia.
"Car accidents cause more trauma than any other source," said Governor Perdue. "And drivers who travel recklessly at high speeds will be held accountable in Georgia. We will make those drivers pay for a statewide trauma network. This will allow us to not only improve Georgia's trauma care system, but also to reduce the actions that cause pain for so many Georgia families."
Senate says no to drug-flavored candy, hallucinogenic plants
The Senate voted to ban the sale of marijuana or hemp flavored candy and prohibit Georgians from growing the plant Salvia divinorum for purposes other than for esthetic, landscaping or decorative purposes. Salvia divinorum contains the chemical Salvinorin A an extremely powerful consciousness altering compound, possibly the most potent naturally occurring hallucinogen thus far isolated.
Senate Bill 258, sponsored by Sen. Vincent Fort of the 39th, makes the sale of the marijuana-flavored lollipops, sometimes sold under the names of Chronic Candy, Purple Haze, Acapulco Gold and Rasta are showing up on the shelves of convenience stores around the country, angering anti-drug advocates.
"It's nothing but dope candy, and that's nothing we need to be training our children to do," said Sen. Fort, who has, in recent years, persuaded some convenience stores to stop selling the treats.
Sen. John Bulloch of the 11th said he was disturbed earlier this year when he watched a news program that showed how easy it is to purchase Salvinorin A, a chemical that, when manufactured properly, can have a hallucinogenic effect on the mind. So he introduced SB 295.
"Salvia divinorum is a pretty plant. It belongs in your yard, not in your bloodstream," Sen. Bulloch, who chairs the Senate Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee, said.
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx F y GK

Senate to House: No Pork!
The members of the Senate Appropriations Committee voted this week to cut all "pork" out of the FY 2007 amended budget and include only those items that are "absolutely necessary," said Senate Appropriations Chairman Jack Hill of the 4th.
In a bipartisan spirit, members of the Senate rallied behind Lt. Governor Casey Cagle, who is adamant that the amended budget fund only those items necessary additional funding for Georgia's school systems, which admitted more students than they anticipated last year, and to fund those emergency spending needs such as PeachCare for Kids, those counties which were damaged by the March 1 tornadoes and the public defender program.
"This is a responsible spending plan that keeps the pledge Republicans have made to exercise restraint in the budget process, and put our state on a sound financial footing. I am proud of the principled work our Appropriations Committee has done . . . ," Lt. Gov. Cagle said.
"We are here to be supportive of this budget," Senate Minority Leader Robert Brown of the 26th said in a press conference prior to the Appropriations Committee's vote on Wednesday. "These priorities are priorities that we can support. PeachCare is a priority that we have had as a Caucus, and we think it is very important to sustain that program.
"Furthermore, we think there will be other opportunities in the larger budget [FY 2008] to do some of the things that our Caucus, and the Senate as a whole will want to do."
The Senate's recommended amended budget includes the following: $6.2 million for the Public Defender Standards Council $8.2 million for PeachCare for Kids $7.6 million for the Pre-Kindergarten Program (lottery funds) $176 million for the Georgia Department of Education for midyear adjustments $11 million for the Governor's Emergency Fund (2007 tornado damage) Protect 10 percent of the budget surplus for the reserve fund and use remaining budget surplus to pay down state debt for new priorities in the FY 2008 budget and/or provide additional tax relief to Georgia families
Sen. Brown: Don't name anything for me
Saying it is one of the most non-controversial bills they will ever vote on, Sen. Robert Brown of the 26th introduced Senate Bill 192, which will set up an electronic database for any citizen to register his or her name, prohibiting the naming of any public building, site, structure, road, intersection, interchange, bridge or other public property for the registrant. Sen. Brown plans to be on that list.
"Is it not true that in Rockmart, Georgia, where the former Senator Nathan Dean is from . . . if we had this registry, many bridges, roads, libraries, school and gyms would be nameless today?" Sen. Jeff Mullis of the 53rd asked Sen. Brown.
"I doubt that," Sen. Brown retorted. "Because I doubt the good Senator would have placed his name on the registry."
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx G y GK

\ V|xx Tv| A A A
Administrative Affairs Committee
The Administrative Affairs Committee did not meet this week.
Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee
The Committee met on Thursday, February 22, to consider several Senate Bills and two House Bills. Among them was Senate Bill 101, which is intended to exclude agricultural facilities and forest land use from being considered nuisances under Georgia law. SB 101 passed unanimously. Also approved was the Committee Substitute to House Bill 301, which makes training and breeding dogs for fighting purpose illegal, and SB 165, which modernizes Georgia's commodities commissions. HB 101, which protects farmers' information from being released by the Georgia Department of Agriculture under the state's Open Records Act and a Committee Substitute to HB 105, which revises poultry plant licensing fees, also were approved by a unanimous vote.
On Wednesday, March 14, Chairman John Bulloch of the 11th reconvened the Agriculture Committee. Sen. Bulloch then gave an introduction of his bill, SB 272, which limits the civil liability for an agritourism professional. After deliberation by many committee members, Donald Childs of the Farm Bureau spoke briefly in favor of SB 272. Bill Clark of the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association spoke against the bill, calling on a member of the committee to submit two changes he had prepared. A do pass motion from Sen. Bill Heath of the 31st failed. The bill was then amended, and it passed unanimously. Chairman Bulloch introduced his next bill, Senate Bill 275, which was created for the purposes of establishing criminal violations of rules and regulations promulgated by the Commissioner of Agriculture. With no opposition to the bill, SB 275 also passed unanimously. Next, Sen. Chip Rogers of the 21st spoke about SB 236. The bill creates tougher laws concerning the protection of citizens' identity. After minor changes to the bill's substitute, SB 236 passed by substitute unanimously. Sen. Vincent Fort of the 39th gave a quick synopsis of SB 258. The bill prohibits a person from knowingly selling, delivering, distributing or displaying for sale marijuana or hemp-flavored candy. SB 258 passed unanimously.
Appropriations Committee
On Wednesday, March 14, the Senate Appropriations Committee met to offer a substitute to Senate Bill 172, by Sen. Greg Goggans of the 7th, legislation that will protect the Georgia Retiree Health Benefit Fund so that it is available to state employees as long as they live. The Committee voted 20-3 to pass the legislation.
The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Wednesday, March 28 to approve two pieces of legislation, House Resolution 102, which will appropriate $1.2 million to Robert Clark who was wrongly arrested, charged and sentenced to life in prison plus 20 years for the kidnapping and rape of a woman in 1981. Through the DNA testing in 2005, it was found that Mr. Clark could not have committed the rape, and was immediately released from prison. Because Mr. Clark has suffered loss of liberty, personal injury, lost wages, injury to reputation, emotional distress and other damages over the 23 years he spent in prison, the state, through the Georgia Department of Administrative Services will pay him $1.2 million over the next 15 years. The bill was amended in Committee, by Sen. Horacena Tate of the 38th, to change the entity administering the funds from the Georgia Department of Corrections to the Department of Administrative Services. The vote was unanimous.
The Senate Appropriations Committee offered a Committee Substitute to House Bill 94, the 2007 amended budget. Following several questions of Chairman Jack Hill of the 4th, the Committee Substitute passed unanimously.
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx H y GK

Banking and Financial Institutions Committee
Chairman Bill Hamrick of the 30th called the meeting to order Tuesday, March 13. The Committee considered House Bill 96, which allows the State Depository Board to accept letters of credit issued by a Federal Home Loan Bank to secure state funds on deposit in state depositories. Chris Kratzer from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta was in attendance to explain the bill. HB 96 was unanimously passed.
Economic Development Committee
Chairman Chip Pearson of the 51st called the Committee to order on Wednesday, February 28. Representative Ron Stephens of the 164th presented House Bill 132, which will increase the allowable number of licensed pilots for the port of Savannah from 17 to 21; and from six to eight for the port of Brunswick. Savannah attorney John Pannell spoke in favor of the bill. HB 132 passed by a unanimous vote, and Rep. Stephens said that Senator Eric Johnson of the 1st would carry the legislation in the Senate. Sen. Jack Murphy of the 27th presented Senate Bill 154, which would require compensation for economic loss to be paid to solid waste collection firms by a municipal corporation that displaces the firm due to the annexation or incorporation of new areas. Tom Gehl of the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) spoke against the bill, claiming it would place an undue burden on municipalities. Several mayors, including Mayor Harold Logsdon of Peachtree City, also spoke against the legislation. Murray Griffin of the National Solid Waste Management Association and Sheryl Collie of North Metro Waste Inc. spoke in favor of SB 154, stating that in fairness municipalities should honor their contracts with solid waste firms. SB 154 then passed out of Committee by an 8 to 1 vote, with Sen. Robert Brown of the 26th in dissent.
The Committee met again on Tuesday, March 13, to consider SB 267. Sen. Bill Hamrick of the 30th presented the Committee Substitute, which concerns mixed-use condominium developments as they are specified in the Georgia Condominium Act, which explains how the developments are operated. Attorney Seth Weissman spoke in favor of the bill. After some discussion, SB 267 passed by substitute by a unanimous vote.
Education and Youth Committee
Chairman Dan Weber of the 40th called the Committee to order on Wednesday, March 14. Sen. Nancy Schaefer of the 50th presented the Committee Substitute to Senate Bill 85, which would allow home school and private school students to participate in extracurricular activities at the public school within their district. Sen. Schaefer stated that the substitute included language that would address concerns brought up at the previous hearing on SB 85. Several parents of home-schooled students spoke against the bill, claiming they are satisfied with current law on home schooling. Jim Puckett of Georgia Association of Educational Leaders (GAEL) also spoke against the bill. The bill was amended to include a minor language change by a unanimous vote. Sen. John Douglas of the 17th moved do pass by substitute as amended, and there was no second to the motion. Chairman Weber then stated that SB 85 would be tabled. Sen. Judson Hill of the 32nd presented SB 122, which will require that annual performance evaluations be signed and provided to each certified educator by April 1. Representatives of Georgia Association of Educators (GAE) and Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE) spoke in favor of the bill. Sen. Hill of the 32nd suggested a minor language change to SB 122, which subsequently passed by substitute as amended. Sen. Schaefer then introduced the next bill, SB 277, to the Committee. SB 277 would prohibit universal mental health testing and psychiatric screening of children in Georgia, except under certain circumstance. After some parents spoke in favor of the bill, Commissioner Albert Murray of the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) spoke against the measure. Commissioner Murray stated that SB 277 would prevent DJJ officials from conducting critical screenings of juveniles taken into custody. The Committee then stood in recess. Upon reconvening, Jocelyn Whitfield of GAE spoke against the bill. Next, representatives of the Georgia School Superintendents Association (GSSA) and PAGE spoke against SB 277. Dr. Robert Schmidt of the Citizens Commission of Human Rights (CCHR) spoke in favor of the bill, stating that it would curb the prescription of dangerous drugs to children. After a brief discussion, SB 277 was tabled by a unanimous vote.
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx I y GK

Ethics Committee
Chairman Renee Unterman of the 45th called the Committee to order on Wednesday, February 28, to hear two bills. Senator Don Balfour of the 9th presented Senate Bill 212, which will extend the same privacy protection enjoyed by teachers and public school employees to all public employees, namely with regard to personal information, such as birthdates and social security numbers. Attorney Don Clyde of Dow Lohnes PLLC spoke on behalf of the Atlanta Journal Constitution. He stated that SB 212 will hinder reporters in their work, and may be a violation of the First Amendment. Wayne Drummond of the Georgia County Welfare Association spoke in favor of the bill. Charemon Grant of the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) also spoke in favor of the bill, stating that it is a logical step to protect employees' health records. SB 212 passed through Committee by a unanimous vote. Next, Sen. Cecil Staton of the 18th presented SB 194, which makes several changes to Georgia law on absentee ballots. SB 194 also passed by a unanimous vote.
The Committee reconvened on Tuesday, March 13, to consider Senate Bills 243 and 264. Sen. John Wiles of the 37th presented SB 264, which defines an adverse military discharge, and states that persons charged with an offense that resulted in a dishonorable or bad conduct discharge and incarceration for more than 30 days would disqualify them for a party's nomination for or election to public office. Deputy Legislative Counsel Rick Ruskell suggested some changes to clarify the bill's language, and Sen. Wiles paused to perfect a substitute. In the meantime, Chairman Unterman introduced SB 243, which will make significant changes to the Ethics in Government Act. Executive Secretary Rick Thompson of the State Ethics Commission then gave a detailed presentation on the bill's provisions. SB 243 would require Georgia's elected officials to take continuing education courses on election law and filing campaign contribution disclosure reports (CCDR). In addition, the legislation will increase late fees for late CCDR filings and add fees and fines for lobbyist report filings. Doug Denton of the DeKalb Water and Soil Conservation District then spoke in favor of the bill, but asked that language be amended to include appointed officials. Jennifer Owens of the Georgia League of Women Voters spoke in support of the measure. Neil Herring of the Georgia chapter of the Sierra Club also spoke in favor of the bill, but asked that language be added to clarify sections of the bill. Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) representatives then presented a Committee Substitute to the bill, which incorporated some of their recommendations. Chairman Unterman presented another amendment, which proposed that the State Ethics Commission can refuse any ethics complaint submitted 30 days prior to an election. All of the amendments were approved, and SB 243 passed by substitute as amended by a unanimous vote. Sen. Wiles then presented his changes to SB 264, and that measure passed by substitute unanimously.
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee met on Tuesday, February 20, to consider Senate Resolution 5, which proposes a constitutional amendment limiting changes to state spending after the approval of each year's budget. SR 5 was introduced by Senators David Shafer of the 48th and Bill Heath of the 31st, along with Sens. Chip Pearson of the 51st, Chip Rogers of the 21st and Judson Hill of the 32nd. Dubbed the Taxpayers' Dividend Act, the amendment would only allow additional spending for education, and must be approved by two-thirds of the members of both houses and a majority of Georgia voters, who would vote in a referendum in November 2008. After making minor changes to the language of the resolution, the committee approved SR 5 unanimously.
Chairman Chip Rogers of the 21st called the Committee to order on Wednesday, February 28. Rep. Tom Rice of the 51st presented House Bill 171, which would require owners or agents who sell motor vehicles as scrap metal who do not have a title to that vehicle to affirm that the vehicle is worth less than $750 and is at least 12 years old. HB 171 passed through the Committee unanimously. Sen. Rogers presented Senate Bill 184, which would not allow payments or compensation totaling $600 or more that may be claimed as a deductible business expense, unless the individual is an authorized employee. SB 184 also passed unanimously. Next, Sen. Ed Tarver of the 22nd presented the Committee Substitute to SB 132, which by local law would authorize tax commissioners or receivers to set a time for setting tax books. After a few questions from Senators Bill Heath of the 31st and Steve Thompson of the 33rd, SB 132 passed unanimously. Lastly, the Committee held a hearing for SB 181, which was presented by Sen. Joseph Carter of the 13th. The bill seeks to enable car rental companies to levy an itemized fee to customers to recover fees and taxes imposed
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx J y GK

by local governments. A representative from Enterprise Rent-A-Car spoke in support of the bill. A representative from the Hearst Corporation expressed concerns that the bill favors the business model of one company, and it would give a competitive advantage to Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Sen. Rogers stated that SB 181 would be taken up again at the next meeting.
The Committee reconvened on Wednesday, March 14. Sen. Cecil Staton of the 18th presented SB 159, which extends the deadline for filing homestead exemption applications from March 1 to April 1. Clint Mueller of the Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG) explained the bill in more detail. The Committee Substitute passed by a unanimous vote. Sen. Tarver presented SB 218, which would authorize homestead exemptions for disabled persons, specifically for hemiplegic and paraplegic paralysis. Additionally, new language would authorize an ad valorem motor vehicle tax exemption for two vehicles owned or leased by non-ambulatory permanently disabled persons. After several questions from the Committee, Sen. Rogers stated the bill would be taken up at the next meeting. Sen. Jeff Mullis of the 53rd presented SB 271, which would amend the time required to acquire real property after a tax sale. Walker County Commissioner Sole Bebe Heiskell provided the Committee with more detail on the bill. Sen. Rogers proposed an amendment, which would change the time from two years to one year. The amendment passed by a vote of 4-3 with Chairman Rogers casting the deciding vote. SB 271 passed by substitute as amended. Sen. Bill Hamrick of the 30th presented SB 118, which would authorize local boards of education to consider recent zoning actions and permits granted for new development within the local government when surveying needs for future school facilities. SB 118 passed through Committee unanimously. Sen. Doug Stoner of the 6th presented SB 225, which would amend current language governing redevelopment powers by creating the Redevelopment Powers Training Board. The Board will conduct training courses in conjunction with the Carl Vinson Institute. The bill passed unanimously by substitute. Lastly, the Committee took up SB 181 by Sen. Carter once again. The bill would enable car rental companies to levy an itemized fee to customers to recover fees and taxes imposed by local governments. Sen. Bill Heath of the 31st presented his substitute, which would require that all fees already be included in the price that is advertised. Representatives from Hearst Corporation, Armada Vans, Alamo, National Rent-A-Car and Budget Rent-A-Car all gave testimony to the bill. After more discussion, both substitutes were moved do pass, but neither received a second motion.
Chairman Rogers called another meeting to order on Thursday, March 15, to take up three bills. The first was HB 357, presented by Rep. Larry O'Neal of the 146th, which incorporates certain provisions of the federal income tax law into Georgia law. After a short discussion, HB 357 passed unanimously. Next, Sen. Jeff Chapman of the 3rd presented SR 400, which calls for a Constitutional amendment to provide for individual and corporations income tax credits for persons donating to certain pre-qualified non-profit organizations. Sen. Rogers proposed an amendment, which passed unanimously. The Committee Substitute passed by a unanimous vote as amended. Sen. Tarver presented SB 218 by substitute again to the Committee. Sen. Bill Heath of the 31st then proposed another substitute. An amendment was proposed to add some language to line 32 on page 2. The amendment passed unanimously. Sen. Steve Thompson moved do pass by substitute as amended. SB 218 passed by Committee Substitute as amended.
Government Oversight Committee
On Tuesday, March 13, Chairman Ronnie Chance of the 16th called the first meeting of the 2007 session to order. Sen. Chance read the Committee Rules, which were unanimously adopted.
Health and Human Services Committee
On Thursday, March 1, the Committee met to take up several resolutions and bills, beginning with Senate Resolution 355. Sen. Judson Hill of the 32nd presented the resolution, which creates the Joint Study Committee of Health Care Transformation for the purpose of studying the current health care system in Georgia. SR 355 passed unanimously. Sen. Don Thomas of the 54th presented Senate Bills 204 and 205. SB 204 creates the Board for the Distribution of Cadavers that will expedite the distribution and delivery of unclaimed dead bodies to the institutions that are entitled to them. SB 205 establishes the Prescription Medication Integrity Act, which requires distributors of wholesale prescription drugs to establish and maintain inventories and records of all transactions regarding the receipt and distribution of
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx K y GK

such drugs. SB 204 and SB 205 were passed unanimously by substitute. Next, Sen. Johnny Grant of the 25th presented SR 363, which creates the Mental Health Service Delivery Commission. The Commission will be responsible for identifying the difficulties in the state's deliverance of mental health services and developing an organizational plan. SR 363 passed by substitute as amended with a unanimous vote. Sen. John Wiles of the 37th presented SB 253, which revises nurse protocol agreements between physicians and advanced practice registered nurses by requiring on-site patient examination by the delegating physician. After much deliberation, SB 253 was tabled for further consideration. SR 345 was presented by Sen. Bill Heath of the 31st . The measure proposes an amendment to the Georgia Constitution pertaining to separation of church and state that will state that no money will be taken from the public treasury in aid of any church, sect, cult or other religious organization. SR 345 is otherwise known as the "Faith-based" initiative. This proposed amendment will be published and submitted for a referendum vote in 2008. SR 345 passed with a vote of 11 to 2.
The Committee reconvened on Thursday, March 15, to consider SR 385 and SB 295, 289 and 102. Sen. Nan Orrock of the 36th presented SR 385, which creates the Senate Study Committee for a Georgia Advance Directives Registry. Dr. Elizabeth Cornell from Emory University Medical School spoke in support of the resolution. SR 385 was unanimously passed. Next, the Committee heard SB 295 by Sen. John Bulloch of the 11th, which makes it unlawful t0 knowingly produce, manufacture or distribute the active chemical ingredient in the hallucinogenic plant Saliva divinorum A. SB 295 was unanimously passed by Committee Substitute. Then Sen. Don Balfour of the 9th presented SB 289, which mandates that the Department of Human Resources (DHR) not only oversee, but also be responsible for assessing the effectiveness of the newborn screening program and allows any laboratory certified and licensed to perform screening of newborns to conduct such testing. Sen. Renee Unterman of the 45th presented SB 102, which makes grammatical changes to current law regarding the scope of chiropractic practice, and will allow chiropractors to use therapeutic procedures that attempt to improve the human body. After several testimonies, SB 289 failed with a vote of 2 to 9, and SB 102 passed as amended by Committee Substitute with a vote of 5 to 3.
The Committee met again Thursday, March 22, to consider HB 127, 151, 155 and 330. Rep. Charlice Byrd of the 20th presented HB 127, which prohibits pharmacists from substituting a generic version of an anti-epileptic drug for the prescribed brand version without prior notification and written consent of the prescribing physician. Among several others, Charlotte Thompson, executive director of the Georgia Epilepsy Foundation spoke in support of the bill, while others, such as Steve Butler from the Generic Pharmaceutical Association, spoke in opposition. Senators Johnny Grant of the 25th and Preston Smith of the 52nd proposed amendments that would change provisions of the bill, which were passed. HB 127 was subsequently passed by Committee Substitute with a vote of 8 to3. Next, Rep. Wendell Willard of the 49th presented HB 155, which allows DHR to revoke an existing license or refuse to issue a license to own/operate personal care homes upon determination that the owner/operator has a criminal record. HB 155 was unanimously passed by Committee Substitute. Rep. Ron Stephens of the 164th presented HB 330, which requires the Georgia State Board of Pharmacy to establish and maintain a registry of pharmacy technicians in the state. HB 330 was also passed unanimously by substitute.
Higher Education Committee
Chairman Seth Harp of the 29th called the meeting to order on Tuesday, March 13. Sen. J.B. Powell of the 23rd presented SB 74. The bill would require admission for combat veterans applying as undergraduate applicants in the University System of Georgia. The bill was approved by a unanimous vote. Senator Michael Meyer von Bremen of the 12th presented SB 75, which asks the Georgia Student Finance Commission to give extra weight to honors courses, and sets minimum statewide standards for honors courses in Georgia. The bill was passed with unanimous support. Chairman Harp then presented SR 397, which urges the creation of intercollegiate wrestling programs at the state university level. The resolution was also approved by a unanimous vote.
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx L y GK

Insurance and Labor Committee
Chairman Ralph Hudgens of the 47th called the meeting to order on Thursday, March 1. Sen. Hudgens moved that the Committee forego presentations on Senate Bills 109, 144, 113, 192, 213 and 183. SB 109 would repeal the exemption in current law that does not require a business entity that acts solely as an administrator of an employee benefit plan and that is regulated by ERISA, to be licensed as an administrator. SB 144 would only allow employees who receive benefits under the State Health Benefit Plan to withdraw during open enrollment periods. SB 113 would amend several provisions relating to various licenses within the insurance industry. SB 192 would allow any entity that self-insures its motor vehicles under the laws of another state to qualify for the same self-insured status in Georgia. SB 213 would allow the Insurance Commissioner to waive any retaliatory obligations, prohibitions or restrictions that would prohibit entry into this state of any insurer domiciled in another state. SB 183 would authorize insurance agents to charge and collect administrative fees directly from consumers when processing applications and endorsements for property and casualty insurance. With no objection, five of the six bills were passed unanimously. SB 109 passed with one dissenting vote. Sen. Jeff Mullis of the 53rd presented SB 230, which clarifies and redefines "classified service" and "unclassified service" as they relate to the State Merit System. After some brief discussion, the bill passed unanimously. Sen. Judson Hill of the 32nd presented SB 153, which would authorize the Insurance Commissioner to develop guidelines for Consumer Driven Health Insurance Plans (CDHP). The Committee Substitute passed by a unanimous vote. Sen. Hill of the 32nd presented SB 151, which would create the Georgia Health Security Underwriting Authority (Authority). After a lengthy debate, the bill passed with one dissenting vote. Sen. Hill of the 32nd then presented Senate Resolution 139, which urges Congress to raise the allowable deduction for health savings accounts. SR 139 passed unanimously.
On Thursday, March 15, the Committee reconvened to take up several bills, beginning with SB 73. Sen. David Shafer of the 48th presented the bill, explaining that it would allow managed healthcare plan enrollees to continue to receive access to care for 60 days in the event their network's contract is terminated. The Committee Substitute passed with one dissenting vote. Sen. Johnny Grant of the 25th presented SB 254, which would redefine the term "in the line of duty" as applied to an emergency medical technician or an emergency management rescue specialist under the Georgia State Indemnification Fund. Joe Kim of the Department of Administrative Services gave further explanation. Gordon Henderson from the Fire Service testified in support of the bill, but recommended that the bill also include to and from training sites. The Committee Substitute passed unanimously. Sen. Tim Golden of the 8th presented SB 96, which would expand the drug testing options by allowing urinalysis conducted by laboratories, testing at the employer worksite with on-site testing kits, or use of oral testing to conduct under the Drug-Free Workplace program. Brandon Reese from the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and David Raynor from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), both testified in support of the bill. Bill Clarke of the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association spoke in favor of the bill, but voiced a concern over the qualifications of the people who will be performing the tests. After further discussion the bill passed unanimously. Sen. Greg Goggans of the 7th presented SB 239, which would amend the Workers' Compensation Act by defining "farm laborers" to mean any person employed by any employee in connection with cultivating the soil or in connection with raising or harvesting any agricultural or horticultural commodity. With no questions, the Committee Substitute passed unanimously. Sen. Cecil Staton of the 18th presented SB 276, which would further clarify what constitutes an uninsured motor vehicle. After lengthy testimonies in support and opposition to the bill, it passed unanimously. Finally, Chairman Hudgens presented SB 224. This legislation would repeal the terms "Commercial Vehicle Policy" and "Fleet Policy" by replacing them with "Commercially Insured Vehicle Policy. It would also authorize the Revenue Commissioner to temporarily waive or suspend fees, penalties and notices to any or all owners of motor vehicles. SB 224 passed through Committee unanimously.
Interstate Cooperation Committee
The Interstate Cooperation Committee did not meet this week.
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx DC y GK

Judiciary Committee
Chairman Preston Smith of the 52nd called the Committee to order on Wednesday, February 28 and presented Senate Bill 145, which allows for a "life without parole" sentencing option for district attorneys without first having to prosecute a murder charge as a death penalty case. Jack Martin of the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers testified in support of the bill, but raised concerns about potential unintended consequences. Two additional witnesses supported the bill, including David McDade, a district attorney representing Douglas County, who recommended a date change be made to the bill, which the Committee decided to put into a floor amendment. The bill passed unanimously. Sen. Ed Tarver of the 22nd then presented additional information regarding his bill, SB 133. After some debate among the Committee and a favorable testimony by one witness, the bill passed by a vote of 4 to 3, with Senators Joseph Carter of the 13th, Mitch Seabaugh of the 28th and John Wiles of the 37th in dissent. One witness, attorney Kerry Silverman, was heard in support of SB 182, regarding asbestos claims. The bill will be taken up at a later meeting.
On Thursday, March 1, the Committee reconvened to take up four bills. SB 37 was presented by Sen. Emanuel Jones of the 10th. He explained that the bill allow for a reconsideration of some juvenile child molestation cases in special circumstances. The bill passed by a 6 to 3 vote, with Sens. Carter, Bill Cowsert of the 46th and Wiles in dissent. Sen. Ronnie Chance of the 16th then presented SB 216, which states that any person under a felony indictment in a state or federal court will be deemed incompetent to serve on a grand jury. The bill passed unanimously. SB 190 was brought to the Committee by Sen. Seth Harp of the 29th, who explained that the bill gives jurisdiction to committing courts to allow for an evaluation of certain defendants for insanity and mental competency. Four witnesses testified in support of the bill, including Karen Smith, Director of the Division of Mental Health of DHR, who presented a substitute to the bill. Sen. David Adelman of the 42nd proposed incorporating additional language to the bill, yet the motion failed. The bill then passed unanimously by substitute. The last bill, SB 182, was presented by Sen. Wiles, who explained that in order to limit the high number of asbestos claims being made, this legislation sets out specific medical criteria for such claims and requires plaintiffs to show physical impairment caused by asbestos. Two witnesses testified, including Bill Clark of the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association, who proposed an amendment that would allow plaintiffs to seek information on insurance coverage. The amendment passed with 5 to 2 vote, with Sens. Kasim Reed of the 35th and Seabaugh in dissent. The bill then passed unanimously.
The Committee met again on Friday, March 2 to take up SB 119, which was presented by David McDade of the District Attorney's Association, on behalf of Sen. Bill Hamrick of the 30th. The bill states that an immediate family member of a victim who is subpoenaed to testify cannot be excluded from a hearing or trial. Chairman Smith proposed several language changes. Sandra Michaels from the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers stated that there is no need for the bill and offered suggestions on how to achieve the bill's intended purpose without adopting a new piece of legislation. The changes offered by Sen. Smith were then incorporated into an amendment. After some debate, the bill passed with a 5 to 4 vote, with Sens. Robert Brown of the 26th, Vincent Fort of the 39th, Harp and Michael Meyer von Bremen of the 12thin dissent.
The Committee reconvened on March 13 and began with a hearing of SB 182, concerning the rules of asbestos and silica lawsuits. The bill was presented by Sen. Wiles, who moved that the bill be tabled for further consideration by the Committee. Once the bill was tabled, Sen. Harp proposed two amendments to the bill, the first of which seeks to clarify the bill's preamble, which passed the Committee unanimously. Sen. Harp then presented the second amendment, which narrows the language regarding litigation. Sen. Wiles raised several concerns about the amendment. Two witnesses testified in support of the bill, including Bill Clark of the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association, who stated that the goal of Amendment 2 is to eliminate frivolous litigation by requiring specific documentation of an asbestos claim. After some debate, the Committee voted on Amendment 2, which failed. SB 182 passed by Committee Substitute by a vote of 8 to 3, with Sens. Harp, Fort and Reed in dissent. Chairman Smith then presented SB 232, which came from a recommendation from the Georgia courts to require that all rules will be filed in an electronic database that is publicly accessible. The bill passed unanimously. SB 50 was presented by Sen. John Douglas of the 17th, who stated that the legislation mandates that a notary public must be a legal resident of the U.S. After some debate on the language of the bill by the Committee, a resident of Cobb
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx DD y GK

County testified in support of the bill. SB 50 passed unanimously by substitute. SB 211 was explained by Sen. Fort, who stated that the legislation increases sentences for hate crimes. After debate among Committee members, GBI Director Vernon Keenan testified in support of the bill, adding that it will serve as a deterrent to criminals. Bill Nigut of the AntiDefamation League offered his support, and stated that hate crimes must be distinguished from other crimes. The bill passed by a vote of 7 to 2, with Sens. Seabaugh and Wiles in dissent.
Chairman Smith called the Committee to order again on Wednesday, March 14. President Pro Tempore Eric Johnson of the 1st presented the first of three bills, SB 280. The legislation creates a Senate Study Committee that will work to define and protect reproductive property rights. He then presented a substitute that makes language changes to several terms in the bill. Chairman Smith proposed an amendment that would make an additional language change regarding the date of the Study Committee's dissolution. SB 280 passed unanimously by substitute. SB 293 was presented by Sen. Meyer von Bremen, which provides procedural safeguards for juvenile deprivation cases. Representatives from DFCS and the Office of the Child Advocate testified in support of the bill. After Sen. Wiles proposed an amendment that would change the effective date of the legislation, the bill passed unanimously. Chairman Smith then explained SB 223, which provides for a cost of living adjustment for juvenile court justices. He added an amendment that simply corrects a date in the bill. SB 223 then passed unanimously as amended.
The Committee reconvened on Thursday, March 15 to take up three bills. Sen. Nancy Schaefer of the 50th presented SB 278, which states that DFCS must first place a child in the care of a relative before they are placed in foster care. The bill also adds a provision to current law that states that the public should be admitted to any juvenile deprivation hearing. Chairman Smith raised several concerns with the bill, including the ability of DFCS to contact every relative of a child in order to place them with family. After some discussion and questions between Committee members and Sen. Schaefer, a witness testified in support of the bill. The hearing on SB 278 was then suspended, and the bill was dropped to the foot of the calendar due to time constraints. Sen. Wiles presented SB 266, which requires that courts be charged a fee when delinquent in paying funds to the Georgia Superior Court Clerk's Cooperative Authority. Sen. Wiles stated that when a court does not comply with the regulations, they may not receive any state financial assistance, grants or loans. Sen. Carter proposed an amendment that would offer additional language to the bill to clarify its intent. Kem Kimbrough of the ACCG testified in support of the bill. SB 266 passed unanimously by substitute. SB 259 was then presented by Sen. Fort, which limits the use of no-knock warrants by law enforcement. After some questions from Committee members, Maggie Garret of the ACLU testified in support of the bill because it protects the safety of citizens. Representatives of Atlanta's Police Department then testified in opposition to the bill, citing that it could increase danger to officer safety. Sandra Michaels of the Criminal Defense Lawyers Association testified in favor of the legislation. Sen. Cowsert presented an amendment that would replace the phrase "clear and convincing evidence" with "probable cause," along with a few other minor language changes. The amendment and bill passed unanimously. The Committee then took up SB 278 again to hear the remaining witnesses. Several citizens, including former state Sen. Donzella James, presented testimonies supporting the bill. A DFCS representative testified against the bill, stating that the it would put the Department out of compliance with federal law, and because of the sensitive nature of many juvenile deprivation hearings, those trials should not be open to the public. Due to time constraints, the Committee moved to table the bill.
On Monday, March 19, Chairman Smith called another meeting to order. The Committee took up only one bill, HB 89, which was presented by Representative Tim Bearden of the 68th. The legislation seeks to eliminate the requirement that those who are lawfully allowed to carry a gun must conceal the weapon when storing it in a vehicle. Several witnesses testified in support of the bill, citing that it helps protect law abiding citizens. Numerous witnesses testified in opposition to the bill, including several members of the Atlanta Police Department. HB 89 passed with a vote of 7 to 4, with Sens. Adelman, Brown, Fort and Reed in dissent.
The Committee reconvened on Thursday, March 22 to take up three House bills. Sen. Cowsert presented HB 386 on behalf of Rep. Roger Lane of the 167th, which makes
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx DE y GK

changes to the construction of superior court fee provisions. Patrise Perkins-Hooker, representing the Georgia State Bar, testified in support of the bill, explaining that it provides solidarity of the process within the superior court. After some questions, Sen. Smith made a motion to amend the Committee Substitute to include SB 14, which changes the sunset dates for real estate or personal property filing fees. HB 386 passed by Committee Substitute as amended by a unanimous vote. HB 39 was presented by Rep. Jill Chambers of the 81st, who explained that the legislation states that a county or local government cannot enter into a confidentiality clause, so that all records will be open to the public. Sen. Wiles raised some concerns regarding the ability of the federal government to override state law in order to prevent public access to certain documents. Sen. Smith then made a motion to incorporate SB 212 into an amendment to the Committee Substitute for HB 39. SB 212 restricts the news media's access to state employees' social security numbers and dates of birth. Maggie Garrett of the ACLU testified in opposition to SB 212 and the amendment, stating that the media needs social security numbers for background checks in order to ensure a story's accuracy. Rep. Chambers then closed the debate in favor of the amendment. The bill passed by Committee Substitute as amended by a vote of 7 to 1, with Sen. Wiles in dissent. The last bill discussed was HB 24, presented by Rep. Steve Tumlin of the 38th. The legislation seeks to provide a standard format for both a living will and healthcare agency. Several amendments accompanied the bill, all of which make language clarifications. Three witnesses offered their support of the bill. HB 24 passed unanimously by Committee Substitute as amended.
Chairman Smith called the Committee to order on Monday, March 26 to take up two bills. HB 274 was presented by Rep. Edward Lindsey of the 54th, who explained that the bill sets forth a tighter application process for appointment as a notary public. After some debate among the Committee, Sunny Azucubuike from the Fulton County Clerk's Office testified in support of the bill, offering additional explanation of its purpose. HB 274 passed unanimously. Witnesses for HB 270 began their testimonies prior to the bill's presentation by Rep. David Ralston of the 7th. Two witnesses testified in favor of the bill, both stating that the bill's goal is to define the role of a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). Rep. Ralston then presented the bill and an amendment offered by DFCS, and asked that the amendment be incorporated into the bill. Two additional witnesses testified in support of the bill, one representing DF CS who explained that the amendment would further strengthen the bill due to the language clarifications it makes. The bill passed unanimously by Committee Substitute as amended.
Natural Resources and the Environment Committee
Chairman Ross Tolleson of the 20th called the Natural Resources and the Environment Committee to order on Wednesday, March 14. Sen. John Douglas of the 17th introduced Senate Bill 3 which allows a for a veteran's lifetime sportsman's license for a fee, which is 80 percent of the amount of an adult lifetime sportsman's license fee. SB 3 passed through committee unanimously. Sen. John Bulloch of the 11th spoke about Senate Bill 263. Alan Toney, chairman of Fulton County Water and Soil Conservation, expressed his concerns about the bill. Several water and soil conservation supervisors and Neil Bradley, an attorney for the ACLU each spoke, giving their thoughts on the bill. After some discussion, SB 263 passed by substitute unanimously. Sen. Seth Harp of the 29th presented SB 226 about soil scientists. SB 226 provides new guidelines that are required for someone to refer to themselves as a soil scientist. Bob Kendal, a practicing soil scientist, provided the committee with clarification about which qualifications are necessary. SB 226 passed by substitution unanimously. Next, Sen. Harp introduced SB 197, which changes current law relating to municipality solid waste disposal facilities. The changes require that new landfills must be at least two miles from another county or municipality's line. Harold Reheis of Joe Tanner and Associates spoke against the bill, citing that this new "two-mile line" around each county would take up too much land within the state. Bill Hodges, an environmental engineer from Macon also spoke in opposition to the bill. Several other witnesses each gave their passionate testimony and thoughts on the matter. Sen. Harp and Sen. Mitch Seabaugh of the 28th closed the discussion by giving their thoughts about the bill. With no motion, SB 197 was tabled, and the meeting adjourned.
The Committee met again Thursday, March 15. Chairman Tolleson presented SB 221, which would require permitting of land disposal sites that receive septic tank waste. SB 221 passed unanimously. The Committee then moved onto SB 292, which seeks to prohibit commercial
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx DF y GK

shrimping within one mile of sounds along the Georgia coast. Pam Davidson of the Georgia Shrimpers Association, and fishermen Fred Dennis, Wendell Harper, Paige Morrison, John Woods and Ricky Boone spoke in against the bill. Additionally, John Derwin of the Coastal Conservation Association spoke in favor of the bill, and Spud Woodward of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources answered technical questions for the Committee. Following a spirited debate and a motion for approval from Sen. Steve Henson of the 41st, the bill was tabled due to lack of a second.
Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee
Chairman Jim Whitehead, Sr. of the 24th called the meeting to order on Wednesday, March 14. Sen. Johnny Grant of the 25th presented Senate Bill 251 by Committee Substitute, which directs the Department of Revenue to establish a website for the purpose of posting the vehicle identification numbers (VIN) and license plate numbers of motor vehicles that are towed. The Committee Substitute passed unanimously. SB 274 and 249 was presented by Sen. Joseph Carter of the 13th. SB 274 allows the Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) to publish crime statistics that may identify persons, agencies, corporations or other legal entities. SB 249 clarifies several provisions of the State Sexual Offender Registry Act in regards to a sex offender registering their place of residence, employment and repeals the loitering prohibition. SB 274 and 249 were passed unanimously. The Committee tabled SB 219 for further consideration. Chairman Jim Whitehead of the 24th called the meeting to order on Monday, March 19. Sen. Bill Hamrick of the 30th presented the committee substitute for SB 219. The legislation allows law enforcement officers to seize the vehicles used in the commission of a sexual offense. Sen. Hamrick told the committee that the legislation gives law enforcement another tool with which to punish those who commit these horrible crimes. Proceeds from the sale of the vehicles will go to the local governments. The bill was approved by a unanimous vote.
Reapportionment and Redistricting Committee
The Reapportionment and Redistricting Committee did not meet this week.
Regulated Industries and Utilities Committee
Chairman David Shafer of the 48th called the meeting to order on Tuesday, February 28. Senator Mitch Seabugh of the 28th presented Senate Bill 146, which would make changes to the code covering the bidding process for public works. Representatives of the Georgia Association of General Contractors and the Georgia Utilities Contractors Association expressed their support for the bill. The bill was approved by a unanimous vote. Committee members then heard a presentation on the Committee Substitute for SB 99. The bill would allow limousine carriers in Georgia to sell alcohol inside their vehicles. Sen.Doug Stoner of the 6th presented the legislation. He told the committee that the bill would allow limousine carriers the same rights to sell alcohol as the airline and train industries. The laws on the sale of alcohol would still be subject to local control. The bill was approved by a vote of 4 to 1. Sen. Seth Harp of the 29th then presented SB 203. The bill changes the laws concerning the theft of non-precious metals from air conditioning units and coolers. Sen. Harp told the committee that the theft of metals such as copper from construction sites and cooling units is becoming a real problem. The metal is scrapped and sold. The bill was passed by a unanimous vote. Sen. Harp then presented SB 137 and 138. The legislation calls for local referendum votes to allow the sale of alcohol on Sundays. The bill would not allow sales before noon on Sunday. Cathy Cousava of the Georgia Convenience Store Assoication told the Committee that the bill will allow local communities to decide what is best for them. Bob Moore with the Georgia Food Industry Association stated that the sale of alcohol on Sunday would lead to more tax revenue. He also stated that approval of this legislation would begin to move the state in line with 47 other states who allow sales on Sunday. Several others spoke in favor of the legislation. Pastor Mike Griffin, of Liberty Baptist Church in Hartwell spoke against the legislation. He told committee members that the sale of alcohol on Sunday would be a detriment to the community, and stated that the legislation is bad for all of Georgia. Several others spoke against the passage of the bills. After a brief discussion on the language in the bills, a motion was made to table the legislation. The bills were laid on the table for final work on the language. Sen. Shafer created a subcommittee for final work on the bills. The subcommittee included Sen. Mitch Seabaugh of the 28th, Sen. Regina Thomas of the 2nd and Chairman Shafer.
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx DG y GK

Chairman Shafer called the meeting to order on Tuesday, March 13. The subcommittee on SB 137 released the bill with no recommendation. After a brief discussion, the committee approved the bill by a vote of 4 to 3. Senator Jeff Mullis of the 53rd presented SB 246. The bill sets the requirements for terms and requirements for members of the Advisory Committee on Industrialized Buildings. The bill was approved by a unanimous vote.
Retirement Committee
The Retirement Committee met on Thursday, March 15, to consider Senate Bill 156. SB 156 would create a trust fund to ensure payments from public retirement funds. After a brief discussion, SB 156 passed by substitute by a unanimous vote.
Rules Committee
The Rules Committee met as a standing Committee on Thursday, March 15 to consider Senate Resolution 124 by Sen. Nancy Schaefer of the 50th, a measure to urge Congress to withdraw the United States from the Partnership of North America. The measured passed. Sen. Jeff Mullis of the 53rd also addressed the Committee to urge a do-pass recommendation on Senate Bill 284 to permanently make April Confederate History and Heritage Month. Currently a resolution is introduced each year to recognize Georgia's history with the Confederacy. The legislation also passed.
Science and Technology Committee
Chairman Cecil Staton of the 18th called the meeting to order on Tuesday, March 13. First, Sen. Staton presented the Committee Substitute to Senate Bill 280. This legislation amends current law prohibiting the executive director and employees of the Georgia Technology Authority (GTA) from having any personal business interest, directly or indirectly, in any business transactions involving the State. Patrick Moore, executive director of GTA, spoke in support of SB 280. Sen. Bill Heath of the 31st proposed an amendment clarifying language, which passed unanimously. The bill then unanimously by substitute. Sen. David Shafer of the 48th presented Senate Resolution 247, which expresses profound regret for Georgia's participation in the eugenics movement and the injustices done under the eugenics laws, including the forced sterilization of Georgia citizens. After some deliberation, SR 247 was passed with Sen. Nan Orrock of the 36th in dissent.
Special Judiciary Committee
The Committee met on Wednesday, March 14, to take up three bills. Sen. Bill Cowsert of the 46th presented Senate Bill 234, which would require that corporations, limited partnerships (LPs), and limited liability companies (LLCs) seeking to convert to a foreign limited liability company, foreign limited partnership, or foreign corporation to file a certificate of conversion with the Secretary of State. Sen. Cowsert further stated that this bill is just a housekeeping bill, which passed easily last year. SB 234 passed through Committee unanimously. Next, Sen. Doug Stoner of the 6th presented SB 217, which would add associations in three ways. After a few brief questions from Senators Judson Hill of the 32nd and Cowsert, the Committee heard more explanation on the bill from Randy Lipshutz of the Media Association Institute. Chairman Michael Meyer von Bremen stated he wants to provide an amendment to the bill. SB 217 was tabled. Lastly, the Committee took up SB 238, which would remove the requirement that another person has be involved when convicted of a felony for tampering with evidence. After no questions, the bill passed through Committee unanimously.
State Institutions and Property Committee
Chairman Johnny Grant of the 25th called the Committee to order on Thursday, March 1. Sen. Robert Brown of the 26th presented Senate Bill 191, which proposes a prohibition on naming any buildings in Georgia after Sen. Robert Brown. Sen. Brown then presented a Committee Substitute that would establish a statewide registry for public officials to declare their intention to not be honored by building dedications. SB 191 passed by substituted unanimously. The Committee also discussed SB 210, sponsored by Sen. George Hooks of the 14th. SB 210, which would authorize the Secretary of State's office to contract with outside facilities to serve as depositories for state records, was also unanimously approved. SB 235,
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx DH y GK

which would all employees of the Department of Corrections who leave the department honorably to retain their badges, also passed unanimously.
Chairman Johnny Grant of the 25th called the meeting to order Wednesday, March 28. First, Rep. Tom McCall of the 30th presented House Resolution 57, which authorizes the State Properties Commission to transfer properties, currently under the custody of the Department of Defense to the City of Elberton for $1.00. HR 57 was unanimously passed by Committee Substitute. Next, Rep. Timothy Bearden of the 67th presented House Bill 366. This legislation provides that every person who is engaged in raising a dog for training as a guide dog or service dog for the purpose of accompanying a totally or partially blind person, a deaf person or a physically disabled person will have the same right as a totally or partially blind person, a deaf person or a physically disabled person. The Committee proposed to amend the bill by entering language from Senate Bill 16, which passed previously, in regard to dog fighting. HB 336 was unanimously passed by Committee Substitute as amended.
State and Local Governmental Operations Committee
Chairman Wiles called the Committee to order on February 28 to take up four bills. Senator Jeff Mullis of the 53rd presented Senate Bill 193, which requires that a county governing authority must provide equal benefits to all county employees. After one witness testified in support of the legislation, SB 193 passed by Committee Substitute unanimously. SB 177 was presented by Sen. Ronnie Chance of the 16th, who explained that the bill simply changes the term of the Griffin Circuit Superior Court in Pike County. The bill passed unanimously. Sen. Johnny Grant of the 25th then presented SB 200 and a substitute, which creates the Georgia Smart Infrastructure Growth Act, to provide for the construction of Infrastructure Development Districts (IDD). After questions from Committee members, numerous witnesses were heard in support of the bill, including representatives of the ACCG and the Council for Quality Growth. Among those who opposed the bill was the Land Programs and Education for the Georgia Conservancy. A representative of the GMA did not take a position on the bill, yet simply stated that many of the Association's concerns had been addressed in the substitute. The bill passed by substitute by a vote of 5 to 2, with Senators Emanuel Jones of the 10th and Kasim Reed of the 35th. Sen. Grant then presented Senate Resolution 309, a Constitutional Amendment that authorizes the creation of an IDD. Sen. Grant proposed an amendment that would incorporate language from SB 200 into the resolution. The resolution passed by Committee Substitute by a vote of 5 to 2, with Sens. Jones and Reed in dissent.
On Thursday, March 1, the Committee met to take up Senate Bill 110 for the second time. Sen. Chip Pearson of the 51st presented the bill, which will allow certain properties to "deannex" from a municipality. Two amendments, which were both language changes, were proposed and passed unanimously. Sen. Grant proposed two additional amendments, but they both failed. The Committee Substitute passed by a unanimous vote as amended.
Chairman Wiles called the Committee to order on Tuesday, March 13. The committee discussed House Bill 91, which would require each state department and agency to provide annual financial reports to the General Assembly. Representatives Jill Chambers of the 81st, who co-sponsored the original legislation with Reps. Ben Harbin of the 118th, Earl Ehrhart of the 36th and Chuck Martin of the 47th, addressed the committee and answered their questions about the bill. She said the bill was patterned after documents gathered by the joint Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Overview Committee (MARTOC). Chairman Wiles of the 37th suggested changing the bill to require agencies and departments to report itemized spending. After Rep. Chambers expressed no objection to the proposed changes, Sen. Wiles decided to postpone action on the bill until a committee substitute could be completed.
The Committee reconvened on Thursday, March 15. Rep. David Ralston of the 7th presented House Bill 316, which would put forth new requirements for towing and storage operators who operate within a municipality. The bill passed through the Committee unanimously. Next, Rep. Ralston presented HB 317, which changes the definitions of motor contract carrier or motor common carrier in Georgia Code. The bill passed unanimously. HB 91, presented by Senate Budget Office Director Kevin Fillion, would require each agency to file a fiscal report by September 30 to the Lieutenant Governor, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Senate Appropriations Committee, the House Appropriations
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx DI y GK

Committee and the House Budget and Fiscal Affairs Oversight Committee. The Committee Substitute passed by a unanimous vote.
Chairman Wiles of the 37th called another meeting to order on Monday, March 26. Rep. Bob Smith of 113th presented HB 247, which would exempt a single-family residential property owner or farm that is served by a private well from having to connect and use water supplied by a public water system or pay any charge. This legislation does have several exemptions. Rep. Smith noted that the Farm Bureau and the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) support the bill. HB 247 passed through Committee unanimously. Next, Rep. Terry England of the 108th presented HB 134, which would change the maximum amount from $300,000 to $750,000 on a bid bond. After a few concerns were voiced from members of the Committee, HB 134 passed unanimously.
Transportation Committee
The Committee was called to order on Thursday, March 1 to take up several bills. The first two bills, House Bill 192 and 231, were presented by Representative Vance Smith of the 129th, who explained that HB 192 increases the dollar amounts relating to the Department of Transportation's (DOT) power to execute a negotiated contract and bonds posted to successful bidders. The bill passed unanimously. HB 231 authorizes state or local law enforcement to move vehicles that are obstructing the roadway. Representatives from the DOT testified in favor of the bill, which passed by a vote of 4 to 1, with Senator John Douglas of the 17th in dissent. Sen. Robert Brown of the 26th then presented SR 301, which provides for an interchange name dedication. The resolution passed unanimously. SR 296 was presented by Sen. Jim Whitehead, Sr. of the 24th, which provides for several bridge dedications. Chairman Jeff Mullis of the 53rd added two additional resolutions to the bill, both of which provide for bridge dedications. Sen. Douglas then proposed an amendment that makes a minor language change. The bill passed unanimously by Committee Substitute as amended. Sen. Mullis presented the next two pieces of legislation, SB 282 and SR 365. SB 282 provides for alternative tourism routes within the state's highway system. SR 365 creates a Joint Study Committee on Transportation Funding that will establish alternative funding for transportation projects. The bill and resolution both passed unanimously. Finally, Sen. Chip Pearson of the 51st explained SB 290, which creates the Georgia Aviation Authority to oversee and streamline state aviation processes. The bill passed unanimously.
Chairman Mullis called another meeting to order on Wednesday, March 14, to discuss five bills. Sen. Whitehead began by explaining SR 357, which passed the Committee unanimously and provides for a bridge dedication in Columbia County. He then presented HB 202, which seeks to prohibit contractors from bidding on future projects if they are more than 25 percent behind on DOT or state contracted projects. The bill passed unanimously. SR 229 was presented by Sen. Michael Meyer von Bremen of the 12th, which dedicates certain roadways to significant Georgians. The resolution passed unanimously. The next bill discussed, SB 284, was presented by Sen. Mullis, who explained that the legislation allows truck drivers to shift the weight on the truck in order to bring their vehicle in compliance with Georgia law. A representative of the Georgia Motor and Trucking Association testified in support of the bill. SB 284 passed unanimously. The Chairman presented the last bill, SR 365, which creates a Joint Study Committee to determine alternative funding for transportation projects and special funding sources. The bill passed unanimously.
The Committee met again on Monday, March 19, to take up a final Senate bill before Crossover Day. Chairman Mullis presented SB 256, which amends current legislation regarding provisions of outdoor advertising signs. Several witnesses, including numerous local county officials, testified in support of the bill but addressed concerns with Section 3 because of the financial burden it places on local counties. Several other witnesses testified in opposition to the bill as a whole. Sen. Thompson gave a brief history of the rift between the billboard industry and Georgia garden clubs, saying that the bill will do nothing to remedy the situation. Sen. Douglas then proposed a substitute that would eliminate Section 3 of the bill. The substitute passed by a vote of 7 to 1, with Sen. Pearson in dissent. SB 256 passed by Committee Substitute by a vote of 5 to 3, with Sens. Pearson, Reed and Thompson in dissent.
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx DJ y GK

Urban Affairs Committee
Chairman David Adelman of the 42nd called the meeting to order Wednesday, February 28. The Committee met to hold a hearing on Senate Bill 89, also known as the Georgia Township Act, which establishes new language that provides for the creation of townships. Under the provisions of the bill, townships will be created by local legislation and approved by voters within the proposed boundaries of the township. Furthermore, townships will not have the power of eminent domain and will be governed by a Board of Town Supervisors, whose meetings and documents will be open to the public. After some deliberation from Committee members, Sen. Adelman concluded the meeting by stating that SB 89 would be discussed at a later meeting. Chairman Adelman called the Committee to order on Thursday, March 8. Sen. Adelman presented Senate Bill 89 and Senate Resolution 130, both of which concern townships. SB 89 would establish new language that provides for the creation of townships. Townships will be created by local legislation and approved by voters within the proposed boundaries of the township. A township will not be a municipality nor exercise any traditional municipal powers, other than the power to control land use and local zoning. Sen. Adelman further explained the only major change to the bill is it gives counties legal participation. Sen. Vincent Fort of the 39th raised a few concerns over how a township can be converted to a municipality. Sen. Fort moved for an amendment to delete lines 13-15 on page 5, but the amendment failed. Sen. Nan Orrock of the 36th posed a question over language on page 5, lines 5-7. Chairman Adelman asked to move the bill forward with the intent of addressing these procedural changes in the future. The bill passed as Committee Substitute 6-2. Sen. Adelman presented SR 130, which proposes an amendment to the Constitution of Georgia to allow the lawful creation of townships. If approved by the Legislature, the proposed amendment will go before voters in 2008. SR 130 passed through Committee 7-3.
Veterans and Military Affairs Committee
Chairman John Douglas of the 17th called the meeting to order on Thursday, March 15. The Chairman presented SR 319. The bill is an urging resolution asking that the Board of Regents maintain the current military science program at North Georgia College and State University. Sen. Douglas stated that the current system has served the state for 134 years. He added that the resolution simply puts the Senate on the record as opposing the proposed change. Several Alumnae gave testimony in favor of maintaining the system, including NGCSU Alumni Council President Kathy Bunner. Alumnus Lee Duncan also testified, asking the committee to let the problem be resolved internally. The resolution was approved by a unanimous vote.
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx DK y GK

Zxz|t ftx fxtx Y| extwx
(Thursday, March 1 Thursday, March 29)

fxtx ex|

SR 274

G.P. Babb Middle School Bulldogs Girls' Volleyball Team; recognize Sen. Gail Davenport (44th) Read and adopted 03/29/07

SR 367

Georgia Central Bank; commend Sen. John Douglas (17th) Read and adopted 02/28/07

SR 368

West Cobb Business Association; recognize Sens. John Wiles (37th); Judson Hill (32nd); Doug Stoner (6th) and Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 02/28/07

SR 369

Acworth Business Association; recognize Sens. John Wiles (37th); Judson Hill (32nd); Doug Stoner (6th) and Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 02/28/07

SR 370

Court of Appeals/Supreme Court; election; term of office-CA Sens. Mitch Seabaugh (28th); Chip Rogers (21st); Chip Pearson (51st); Eric Johnson (1st); Tommie Williams (19th) and others Judiciary Committee 03/01/07

SR 371

King, Mr. Jim; commend Sen. Chip Pearson (51st) Read and adopted 03/01/07

SR 372

Saling, Mr. Bill; commend Sen. Chip Pearson (51st) Read and adopted 03/01/07

SR 373

Golden, Dr. Willie "Bill"; commend Sens. Jack Hill (4th); Tommie Williams (19th); Don Thomas (54th); John Wiles (37th) and Eric Johnson (1st) Read and adopted 03/01/07

SR 374

Little, Jane; recognize Sen. Chip Pearson (51st) Read and adopted 03/01/07

SR 375

Public Funding; separate charitable affiliates of religious/sectarian organizations; provide for conditions/requirements-CA Sens. Doug Stoner (6th); Tim Golden (8th); Robert Brown (26th); Valencia Seay (34th); Michael Meyer von Bremen (12th) and others Health and Human Services Committee 03/01/07

SR 376

Dawson County; celebrate Sen. Chip Pearson (51st) Read and adopted - 03/01/07

SR 377

Jekyll Island Authority; redevelopment of resort/facilities; to exercise great caution/restraint Sens. Jeff Chapman (3rd) and Regina Thomas (2nd) State Institutions and Property Committee 03/01/07
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx DL y GK

SR 378 SR 380 SR 381 SR 382 SR 383 SR 384 SR 385 SR 386 SR 387
SR 388 SR 389 SR 390 SR 391 SR 392

Kay, Mrs. Melba; honoring Sens. Bill Cowsert (46th); Greg Goggans (7th); Renee Unterman (45th) and Jim Whitehead, Sr. (24th) Read and adopted 03/01/07
Pace Academy; recognize Sen. Judson Hill (32nd) Read and adopted 03/01/07
Head, Donovan; commend Sen. Judson Hill (32nd) Read and adopted 03/01/07
Ron Blomberg Day; recognize Sen. Judson Hill (32nd) Read and adopted 03/01/07
Georgia Department of Public Safety; honoring Sens. Jack Hill (4th); Jim Whitehead, Sr. (24th); Jack Murphy (27th); Jeff Mullis (53rd); Jeff Chapman (3rd) and others Read and adopted 03/01/07
Imagine Wesley International Academy; commend Sens. Nan Orrock (36th); Kasim Reed (35th); Vincent Fort (39th); David Adelman (42nd); Curt Thompson (5th) and others Read and adopted 03/01/07
Georgia Advance Directives Registry; create senate study committee Sens. Nan Orrock (36th); Renee Unterman (45th); Greg Goggans (7th); Steve Henson (41st); Don Thomas (54th) and others Health and Human Services Committee 03/01/07
Human Resources, Dept.; urged to establish a uniform format among hospital forms; mandate use in all Georgia hospitals Sens. Nan Orrock (36th); Renee Unterman (45th) and Gloria Butler (55th) Health and Human Services Committee 03/01/07
Congress; urged to adopt the United States National Health Insurance Act Sens. Nan Orrock (36th); Vincent Fort (39th); Emanuel Jones (10th); Gloria Butler (55th); Horacena Tate (38th) and others Insurance and Labor Committee 03/01/07
U.S. Congress; urged to enact Prevention First Act Sen. Nan Orrock (36th) Health and Human Services Committee 03/01/07
Warner, Jr., Mr. Johnnie C.; recognize Sen. Ed Harbison (15th) Read and adopted 03/01/07
Henderson, Dorian; commend Sen. Ed Harbison (15th) Read and adopted 03/01/07
Stamps, Kelly Jessica Edwards; recognize Sen. Ed Harbison (15th) Read and adopted 03/01/07
Ruark, Ms. Erin; recognize Sen. Ed Harbison (15th) Read and adopted 03/01/07
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx EC y GK

SR 393 SR 394 SR 395 SR 396 SR 397
SR 398 SR 399 SR 401 SR 402 SR 403
SR 405 SR 406 SR 407 SR 408

Key, Doug; honoring Sen. Ed Harbison (15th) Read and adopted 03/01/07
Northeast Georgia Plastic Surgery Associated; commend Sen. Lee Hawkins (49th) Read and adopted 03/01/07
Shaw, Brandi Nicole; recognize Sens. Bill Heath (31st) and Bill Hamrick (30th) Read and adopted 03/01/07
Hand, Carson; recognize Sens. Seth Harp (29th) and Ed Harbison (15th) Read and adopted 03/01/07
Board of Regents; urged to establish programs for intercollegiate wrestling Sens. Seth Harp (29th); Bill Cowsert (46th); Cecil Staton (18th); Curt Thompson (5th); Ronnie Chance (16th) and others Higher Education Committee 03/01/07
Winston, Lawrence; Blount, Shantenet; celebrate marriage Sen. Ed Tarver (22nd) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Brown, James; condolences Sen. Ed Tarver (22nd) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Greenfield Hebrew Academy; commend Sen. Judson Hill (32nd) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Greenblatt, Mr. Jeffrey; condolences Sens. Judson Hill (32nd) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/19/07
EMS Recruitment, Retention, and Retirement; create Senate Study Committee Sens. Jeff Mullis (53rd); Don Thomas (54th); Cecil Staton (18th); Eric Johnson (1st); Greg Goggans (7th) and others Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee 03/19/07
Morgan County; commemorating 200th anniversary Sens. Johnny Grant (25th); John Douglas (17th); Jim Whitehead, Sr. (24th) and Ralph Hudgens (47th) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Smoak, Cameron; recognize Sen. John Bulloch (11th) Read and adopted 03/19/07
David, Jr.; Lieutenant Colonel Edgar George; commend Sen. Chip Pearson (51st) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Randolph, Mamie M.; condolences Sen. Kasim Reed (35th) Read and adopted 03/19/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx ED y GK

SR 409 SR 410 SR 411 SR 412 SR 413 SR 414 SR 415 SR 416 SR 417 SR 418 SR 419 SR 420 SR 421
SR 422
SR 423

Annual Habitat Hullabaloo Barbecue Cook-off; recognize Sen. Chip Pearson (51st) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Wood, Lieutenant Colonel Roy W.; recognize Sen. Mitch Seabaugh (28th) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Georgia Rides to the Capitol Day; recognize Sen. David Adelman (42nd) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Peanut Butter and Jelly Day at the Capitol; recognize Sen. John Bulloch (11th) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Brooks, Christopher H.; commend Sen. Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Fuller, Martha; condolences Sen. Mitch Seabaugh (28th) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Cheek, Earl H.; commend Sen. Ross Tolleson (20th) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Ramsey, Janice; commend Sen. Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Ratliff, Bill; commend Sen. Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Kortum, Helen; recognize Sen. Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Georgia Day; urge public schools to observe Sen. John Douglas (17th) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Georgia Authors; recognize Sens. Seth Harp (29th) and Cecil Staton (18th) Read and adopted - 03/19/07
Graham, Paul; commend Sens. Seth Harp (29th); Tommie Williams (19th); Jack Hill (4th) and John Wiles (37th) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Chaney, Kayla; commend Sens. Seth Harp (29th); Greg Goggans (7th) and John Wiles (37th) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Kozak, Amanda; honoring Sens. Ross Tolleson (20th) and Tim Golden (8th) Read and adopted 03/19/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx EE y GK

SR 424 SR 425 SR 426 SR 427 SR 428 SR 429 SR 430 SR 431 SR 432 SR 433 SR 434 SR 435 SR 436 SR 437

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Choruses; commend Sen. Chip Pearson (51st) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Dawson County High School; congratulation Sen. Chip Pearson (51st) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Quality of Child Care in Georgia; create Senate Study Committee Sens. Dan Weber (40th); Joseph Carter (13th); John Douglas (17th); Dan Moody (56th) and Regina Thomas (2nd) Education and Youth Committee 03/19/07
Georgia's Recycling and Composting Services; commend Sen. Jeff Mullis (53rd) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Senate Railroad Safety and Security Study Committee; create Sens. Jeff Mullis (53rd); Cecil Staton (18th); Greg Goggans (7th); John Douglas (17th); Doug Stoner (6th) and others Transportation Committee 03/19/07
Callaway, Bo; commend Sens. Seth Harp (29th); Eric Johnson (1st); Tommie Williams (19th); Dan Moody (56th) and Mitch Seabaugh (28th) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Thacker, William Herbert; recognize Sen. Chip Pearson (51st) Read and adopted 03/19/07
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month; recognize May Sens. Jeff Mullis (53rd) and Tommie Williams (19th) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Mann, Wesley Cole; commend Sen. Jim Whitehead, Sr. (24th) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Smith, Adam H.; commend Sens. Jack Murphy (27th); Chip Pearson (51st) and Judson Hill (32nd) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Peacock, Jonathan; recognize Sen. Greg Goggans (7th) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Gibson, John Strickland; condolences Sen. Greg Goggans (7th) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Williamson, Major Demitra L.; recognize Sen. Ed Harbison (15th) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Mahaffey, Carlos; recognize Sen. Ed Harbison (15th) Read and adopted 03/20/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx EF y GK

SR 438 SR 439
SR 440 SR 441 SR 442 SR 443 SR 444 SR 445
SR 446 SR 447 SR 448 SR 449 SR 450 SR 451

Simmons, Jr., Earl; recognize Sen. Ed Harbison (15th) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Soil and Water Conservation Districts; selection of supervisors; express objection of Senate to any changes from current status Sens. Steve Henson (41st); Horacena Tate (38th); Gloria Butler (55th) and Robert Brown (26th) Natural Resources and the Environment Committee 03/20/07
Northeast Georgia Plastic Surgery Associates; commend Sen. Lee Hawkins (49th) Read and adopted 03/20/07
White, Laura; recognize Sen. David Shafer (48th) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Horton's Books and Gifts; recognize Sen. Bill Hamrick (30th) Read and adopted 03/20/07
University of West Georgia Advocates Program; recognize Sen. Bill Hamrick (30th) Read and adopted 03/20/07
University of West Georgia Cheerleading Teams; commend Sen. Bill Hamrick (30th) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Joint Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Minors Study Commission; create Sens. Renee Unterman (45th); Kasim Reed (35th); Eric Johnson (1st) and Nan Orrock (36th) Special Judiciary Committee 03/20/07
U.S. Representative Charles Whitlow Norwood, Jr. D.D.S; honoring lifetime achievements Sen. Jim Whitehead, Sr. (24th) Higher Education Committee 03/20/07
National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility for Georgia; urge Governor to continue his pursuit Sen. Jim Whitehead, Sr. (24th) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Wood, Pete and Lillie; honoring Sens. Doug Stoner (6th); John Wiles (37th); Steve Thompson (33rd); Chip Rogers (21st); and Judson Hill (32nd) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Spurlin, Miss Hannah Grace; recognize Sen. Joseph Carter (13th) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Morton, Bishop Paul S.; recognize Sens. Emanuel Jones (10th) and Ronald Ramsey, Sr. (43rd) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Heart of Africa Project; recognize Sen. Emanuel Jones (10th) Read and adopted 03/20/07
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx EG y GK

SR 452
SR 453 SR 454 SR 455 SR 456
SR 457 SR 458 SR 459 SR 460 SR 461 SR 462 SR 463 SR 464 SR 465 SR 466

Sports, Mr. W. Don; condolences Sens. Jack Hill (4th); Greg Goggans (7th); Eric Johnson (1st); Tommie Williams (19th) and Michael Meyer von Bremen (12th) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Veterans Memorial Highway; Carroll County; dedicate Sens. Mitch Seabaugh (28th) and Bill Hamrick (30th) Transportation Committee 03/20/07
C.C. Perkins Memorial Highway; Carroll County; dedicate Sens. Bill Hamrick (30th) and Mitch Seabaugh (28th) Transportation Committee 03/20/07
Knight, Julian Eschol; condolences Sen. George Hooks (14th) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Cucchi, Bob; recognize Sens. Ronnie Chance (16th); Chip Rogers (21st); Eric Johnson (1st); Tommie Williams (19th); John Douglas (17th) and others Read and adopted 03/20/07
Mikul, Scott; commend Sen. Judson Hill (32nd) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Corbett, Brian John; commend Sen. Judson Hill (32nd) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Biggs, Stuart; commend Sen. Judson Hill (32nd) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Olsen, Andy; commend Sen. Judson Hill (32nd) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Jones, Jonathan Cory; commend Sen. Kasim Reed (35th) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Collar, Nicholas; commend Sen. Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Layne, J.D.; commend Sen. Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Crow, Jeffrey; commend Sen. Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Rambeau, Christine; commend Sen. Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Crow, Mallory; commend Sen. Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 03/20/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx EH y GK

SR 467 SR 468 SR 469 SR 470 SR 471 SR 472 SR 473 SR 474 SR 475 SR 476 SR 477 SR 478 SR 479

Dailey, Sarah; commend Sen. Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Bernhardt, Lacy; commend Sen. Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Williams, Dr. Michael; commend Sen. Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Turnabout Ministries, Inc.; recognize Sen. Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Property and Casualty Rate Regulation; create Senate Study Committee Sens. Chip Rogers (21st); Judson Hill (32nd) and Chip Pearson (51st) Insurance and Labor Committee 03/20/07
Merrill III, Charles (Chad) Barrett; recognize Sen. David Adelman (42nd) Read and adopted 03/20/07
Manchester High School Blue Devils boys basketball team; congratulate Sen. Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Hooks, Vendie Hudson; condolences Sens. George Hooks (14th) and Jack Hill (4th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Mabry, Dr. Norris Kemp; condolences Sen. Jack Hill (4th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Pinewood Christian Academy Lady Patriots varsity girls basketball team; commend Sen. Jack Hill (4th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Dodson, Karen; recognize Sens. Steve Henson (41st); David Adelman (42nd); Horacena Tate (38th) and George Hooks (14th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Scharioth, Excellency Dr. Klaus; recognize Sens. Michael Meyer von Bremen (12th); Judson Hill (32nd); Chip Rogers (21st); Seth Harp (29th) and Chip Pearson (51st) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Tift County High School Future Farmers of America bio-diesel group; commend Sen. Joseph Carter (13th) Read and adopted 03/27/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx EI y GK

SR 480
SR 481 SR 482 SR 483 SR 484 SR 485 SR 486 SR 487 SR 488 SR 489 SR 490 SR 491 SR 492 SR 493

Increasing Cargo Capacity at Georgia Ports; create Senate study committee Sens. Joseph Carter (13th); Eric Johnson (1st); George Hooks (14th); Michael Meyer von Bremen (12th); Jeff Mullis (53rd) and others Economic Development Committee 03/27/07
Story, Dr. James "Jim" and Carolyn; commend Sens. John Bulloch (11th) and Tim Golden (8th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Senate Communications Taxes and Fees Study Committee; create Sens. Chip Rogers (21st); Judson Hill (32nd); J.P. Powell (23rd); Chip Pearson (51st); John Douglas (17th) and others Finance Committee 03/27/07
Georgia's Public Schools; encouraging the effective teaching of social studies Sen. Seth Harp (29th) Education and Youth Committee 03/27/07
Wilkinson County High School Warriors boys basketball team; congratulate Sen. Robert Brown (26th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Lott, Nicholas Alexander; commend Sen. Gloria Butler (55th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Clint H. Bryant Memorial Bridge; designate Sen. Don Thomas (54th) Transportation Committee 03/27/07
Teacher Complaint/Grievance Procedure; create Senate Study Committee Sen. John Wiles (37th) Education and Youth Committee 03/27/07
Kassow, Robert Scott; condolences Sen. John Wiles (37th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Taylor, Jr., William; congratulate Sen. Ed Harbison (15th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Crawford, William "Too-Too"; honoring Sen. Ed Harbison (15th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Wojociechowski, Coach Ken; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Turner, Head Coach Gerald; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Dimitri, Anthony; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx EJ y GK

SR 494 SR 495 SR 496 SR 497 SR 498 SR 499 SR 500 SR 501 SR 502 SR 503 SR 504 SR 505 SR 506 SR 507 SR 508

Albritton, Spiritual Leader Alton; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Wilson, Coach Wes; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Jones, Coach Collins; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Hayes, Derrick; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Minger, Cartavius; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Ware, Pierre; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Crouch, Quintin; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Crouch, Joe; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Brown, Derek; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Peterson, Steve; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Lane, Xavier; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Saunders, Keith; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Jordan, Tim; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Abraham, James; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Woods, Joushua; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx EK y GK

SR 509 SR 510 SR 511 SR 512 SR 513 SR 514 SR 515 SR 516 SR 517 SR 518 SR 519 SR 520 SR 521 SR 522 SR 523

Ivey, Winford; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Jordan, Xavier; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Wilkes, Dustin; commend Sens. Ralph Hudgens (47th) and Lee Hawkins (49th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Braswell, DDS; McLaurin, DMD; Weinman, DDS; Winston, DDS; recognize Sen. Lee Hawkins (49th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Hill, Terrance; commend Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Lindsey, Hillary Lee; commend Sen. Jim Whitehead, Sr. (24th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Ad Valorem Taxation; exemptions which may be authorized locallyCA Sen. Kasim Reed (35th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/27/07
Tift County High School Bio-diesel Project Participants; congratulate Sen. Ross Tolleson (20th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Childhood Obesity in Georgia; create Senate Study Committee Sens. Don Thomas (54th) and Steve Henson (41st) Health and Human Services Committee 03/27/07
Autism Speaks Foundation; commend Sen. Don Thomas (54th) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Schwartz, Jordan; recognize Sen. Judson Hill (32nd) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Harrison High School Band Program; recognize Sens. John Wiles (37th); Doug Stoner (6th); Judson Hill (32nd) and Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 03/27/07
Oswald, Andrew; honoring Sens. Judson Hill (32nd) and Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Small, Rev. Dr. Leonard; recognize Sen. Regina Thomas (2nd) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Yarbor, Gloria S.; recognize Sen. Regina Thomas (2nd) Read and adopted 03/28/07
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx EL y GK

SR 524 SR 525 SR 526 SR 527 SR 528 SR 529 SR 530 SR 531 SR 532 SR 533 SR 534
SR 535 SR 536 SR 537

Jones, Jr., Alderman Clifton; recognize Sen. Regina Thomas (2nd) Read and adopted 03/28/07
SkyeLite Jazz Band of Savannah Arts Academy; commend Sen. Regina Thomas (2nd) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Blue, Gladys Lynes Hamilton; recognize Sen. Regina Thomas (2nd) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Ellis, Jr., Rev. Edward; honoring Sen. Regina Thomas (2nd) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Stephenson High School Lady Jaguars Varsity Basketball Team; commend Sen. Gloria Butler (55th) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Brown, Carlton E.; recognize Sens. Regina Thomas (2nd) and Eric Johnson (1st) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Johnson, Ellis M.; recognize Sen. Ed Tarver (22nd) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Larke, Dr. Charles G.; recognize Sen. Ed Tarver (22nd) Read and adopted 03/28/07
American Red Cross Month; proclaim March Sens. David Shafer (48th); Jeff Chapman (3rd); Regina Thomas (2nd); Cecil Staton (18th); Dan Weber (40th); and others Read and adopted 03/28/07
Preskitt, Rev. William Houston and Mrs. Martha Pittman; condolences Sen. David Shafer (48th) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Bullock, Connie and Randall; recognize Sens. John Wiles (37th); Judson Hill (32nd); Curt Thompson (5th); Doug Stoner (6th) and Chip Rogers (21st) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Piedmont Fayette Hospital; recognize Sens. Valencia Seay (34th) and Ronnie Chance (16th) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Sumter Regional Hospital; physicians, staff, and volunteers; recognize Sen. George Hooks (14th) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Flint River Hospital; physicians, staff, and volunteers; recognize Sen. George Hooks (14th) Read and adopted 03/28/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx FC y GK

SR 538 SR 539 SR 540 SR 541 SR 542 SR 543 SR 544 SR 545 SR 546 SR 547 SR 548

Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital; physicians, staff, and volunteers; recognize Sen. George Hooks (14th) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Crisp Regional Hospital; physicians, staff, and volunteers; recognize Sen. George Hooks (14th) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Walker, Ph.D, Dr. Eugene P.; commend Sens. Steve Henson (41st); David Adelman (42nd); Vincent Fort (39th); Horacena Tate (38th); Robert Brown (26th); and others Read and adopted 03/28/07
Chilean American Chamber of Commerce of GA; recognize Sens. Curt Thompson (5th) and Doug Stoner (6th) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Tucker High School Tigers Boys Varsity Basketball Team; commend Sens. Steve Henson (41st); Dan Weber (40th); Curt Thompson (5th) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Howard, Emmie Claire; Hardy, Reagan Elizabeth; commend Sens. Eric Johnson (1st); John Bulloch (11th); Bill Heath (31st) and Dan Weber (40th) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Read, Kay; recognize Sens. Michael Meyer von Bremen (12th) and George Hooks (14th) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Knight, Venescia; recognize Sens. Michael Meyer von Bremen (12th) and George Hooks (14th) Read and adopted 03/28/07
Jackson, Jr., Rev. Dr. Mance C.; condolences Sen. Horacena Tate (38th) Read and adopted 03/29/07
Harris, III, John W.; recognize Sens. Jack Hill (4th); Regina Thomas (2nd); Jeff Chapman (3rd); Ronnie Chance (16th); John Douglas (17th) and others Read and adopted 03/29/07
Gordon, Susan; recognize Sens. Tommie Williams (19th); George Hooks (14th); Eric Johnson (1st); Jack Hill (4th); Preston Smith (52nd) and others Read and adopted 03/29/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx FD y GK

fxtx U|M

SB 262 SB 263 SB 264 SB 265 SB 266 SB 267 SB 268 SB 269 SB 270 SB 271 SB 272

Fulton County; homestead exemption; educational purposes for full value; definitions; specify terms/conditions Sen. Horacena Tate (38th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/01/07
Soil/Water Conservation Districts; number/boundaries; alteration of existing districts/formation of new districts; change certain provisions Sens. John Bulloch (11th) and Ross Tolleson (20th) Natural Resources and the Environment Committee 03/01/07
Elections/Primaries; qualify for a party's nomination/run for public office; provide certain requirements Sen. John Wiles (37th) Ethics Committee 03/01/07
Personnel/Merit System; define classified/unclassified service; employees; change certain provisions Sen. John Wiles (37th) Insurance and Labor Committee 03/01/07
Judicial Accounting; add a penalty, late fees, and interest for failure to remit certain funds/ reports to authority Sen. John Wiles (37th) Judiciary Committee 03/01/07
Georgia Condominium Act; define certain terms; declarant shall pay certain expenses; provide exceptions; subcondominium Sens. Bill Hamrick (30th); Chip Pearson (51st) and Chip Rogers (21st) Economic Development Committee 03/01/07
Labor, Dept. of; program of mandatory drug testing of applicants for unemployment benefits; review; define certain terms Sens. Mitch Seabaugh (28th) and Chip Rogers (21st) Insurance and Labor Committee 03/01/07
St. Marys, City of; vacancy of any elected office; provide for certain declarations Sen. Jeff Chapman (3rd) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/01/07
Juvenile Justice; Dept. of; provide for Office of Runaway Children Assistance; duties/structure Sens. Bill Hamrick (30th) and Renee Unterman (45th) Special Judiciary Committee 03/01/07
Taxes; change the period of time within which a tax deed shall ripen by prescription Sen. Jeff Mullis (53rd) Finance Committee 03/01/07
Agricultural/Forest Products; limited liability for owners/operators of farms offering agritourism under certain circumstances Sens. John Bulloch (11th) and Chip Pearson (51st) Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee 03/01/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx FE y GK

SB 273 SB 274 SB 275 SB 276 SB 277 SB 278 SB 279
SB 280 SB 281 SB 282 SB 283

Deer Hunting; lawful/unlawful killing of dogs pursuing/killing a deer; revise provisions Sens. Ronnie Chance (16th); Chip Rogers (21st) and Valencia Seay (34th) Natural Resources and the Environment Committee 03/01/07
Georgia Crime Information Center; publication of statistics; revise provisions Sens. Joseph Carter (13th) and Ronnie Chance (16th) Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee 03/01/07
Agriculture Commissioner; provide a date certain for rules/regulations to establish criminal violations Sen. John Bulloch (11th) Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee 03/01/07
Insurance; uninsured motor vehicle; available coverages are inadequate to cover person's bodily injury/property damage losses Sens. Cecil Staton (18th); Seth Harp (29th); David Shafer (48th); Jack Murphy (27th); Jeff Mullis (53rd) and others Insurance and Labor Committee 03/01/07
Juvenile Proceedings; prohibit universal mental health testing/psychiatric screening of juveniles; definitions Sens. Nancy Schaefer (50th); Robert Brown (26th); Chip Rogers (21st); David Shafer (48th); Judson Hill (32nd) and others Education and Youth Committee 03/01/07
Proceedings; juvenile deprivation hearings shall not be closed; except upon written application of parents Sens. Nancy Schaefer (50th); Robert Brown (26th); David Shafer (48th); Chip Rogers (21st); Chip Pearson (51st) and others Judiciary Committee 03/01/07
Georgia's Promise; certain students; admission to member institutions of University Sys.; top 10% of graduating class; automatically admitted Sens. Kasim Reed (35th); Tim Golden (8th); Emanuel Jones (10th) and Robert Brown (26th) Higher Education Committee 03/01/07
Georgia Technology Authority; provide for construction/interpretation of the Code section Sens. Dan Moody (56th); Cecil Staton (18th); Ronnie Chance (16th) and David Shafer (48th) Science and Technology Committee 03/01/07
Local Government; subrecipients/units; liability; clarify certain provisions Sens. Horacena Tate (38th); Kasim Reed (35th); Steve Henson (41st); Vincent Fort (39th); Gloria Butler (55th) and others State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/01/07
Highway System; alternative tourism routes; creation Sens. Jeff Mullis (53rd); Preston Smith (52nd); Nancy Schaefer (50th); Don Thomas (54th); Bill Hamrick (30th) and others Transportation Committee 03/01/07
Confederate Heritage and History Month; create Sens. Jeff Mullis (53rd); Chip Pearson (51st) and Bill Heath (31st) Rules Committee 03/01/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx FF y GK

SB 284 SB 285 SB 286 SB 287 SB 288 SB 291
SB 297 SB 298 SB 299 SB 300 SB 301 SB 302

Vehicle Weight/Load; allow operator to comply with weight requirements by shifting/equalizing on all wheels Sens. Jeff Mullis (53rd); Jim Whitehead, Sr. (24th); Chip Pearson (51st) and Bill Heath (31st) Transportation Committee 03/01/07
Revised Peachcare for Kids Act; change the short title Sens. Greg Goggans (7th) and Tommie Williams (19th) Health and Human Services Committee 03/01/07
Health Care Liability Claim; limitation in emergency medical care; change certain provisions Sens. Seth Harp (28th); Robert Brown (26th); David Shafer (48th); Mitch Seabaugh (28th) and Bill Cowsert (46th) Judiciary Committee 03/19/07
State Licensed Facilities/Public Buildings; require child safety outlets, covers, or plugs; provide a date of compliance Sen. Regina Thomas (2nd) State Institutions and Property Committee 03/19/07
Property; automatic reversion of mineral rights to fee owner; taxes due not paid for 20 years; method of reversion Sens. Jeff Mullis (53rd) and Jim Whitehead, Sr. (24th) Finance Committee 03/19/07
Ad Valorem Taxation; provide annual hearings on property taxes by county/municipal governing authorities/independent school systems Sens. Jeff Mullis (53rd); Michael von Bremen (12th); Jim Whitehead, Sr. (24th); Chip Pearson (51st) and others State and Local Government Operations Committee 03/19/07
Teachers; local units of admin. adopt disciplinary procedures; revise certain definitions Sen. Robert Ramsey (43rd) Education Committee 03/19/07
Pulaski County; office of probate judge; nonpartisan elections Sen. Ross Tolleson (20th) State and Local Government Operations Committee 03/19/07
Model Rockets; provide exemption when defining explosive for certain purposes Sen. Mitch Seabaugh (28th) Public Safety Committee 03/19/07
Transparency in Government Act; Dept. of Audits/Accounts; creation/maintenance of certain state expenditure information Sens. Chip Rogers (21st) and Chip Pearson (51st) Appropriations Committee 03/19/07
Fulton County Industrial District; create; prohibit governing authority from levying any tax for educational purposes Sens. Horacena Tate (38th) and Kasim Reed (35th) State and Local Government Operations Committee 03/19/07
Forest Park, City of; authorize to exercise all redevelopment/other powers; provide referendum Sens. Gail Davenport (44th) and Valencia Seay (34th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx FG y GK

SB 303 SB 304 SB 305 SB 306 SB 307 SB 308 SB 309 SB 310 SB 311 SB 312 SB 313
SB 314

Forsyth County; Board of Education; increase the per diem expense allowance; chairperson/board members Sens. Jack Murphy (27th) and Chip Pearson (51st) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07
Human Resources, Dept; submission of data relating to individual's employer; state funded/administered health care program Sens. Doug Stoner (6th); Johnny Grant (25th); Tim Golden (8th); Don Thomas (54th) and David Adelman (42nd) Insurance and Labor Committee 03/20/07
Emergency Management; licensing of nongovernmental rescue organizations; revise a provision Sens. David Shafer (48th); Chip Pearson (51st); Bill Heath (31st); Don Thomas (54th) and Jeff Mullis (53rd) Judiciary Committee 03/20/07
Greater Fulton Water Authority Act; provide for definitions; powers/duties Sens. David Shafer (48th); Dan Moody (56th) and Judson Hill (32nd) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07
Uniform Rules; leaving a motor vehicle unattended; repeal Code Section 40-6-201 Sens. Jack Murphy (27th); Judson Hill (32nd); Bill Heath (31st); David Shafer (48th); Jeff Mullis (53rd) and others Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee 03/20/07
DeKalb County; board of education members; change compensation Sens. Steve Henson (41st); Gloria Butler (55th); David Adelman (42nd) and Emanuel Jones (10th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07
State Court of Jefferson County; compensation of the judge/solicitor-general of the court; change provisions Sen. J.B. Powell (23rd) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07
Jefferson County; sheriff; compensation; change provisions Sen. J.B. Powell (23rd) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07
Burke County; sheriff; change compensation Sen. J.B. Powell (23rd) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07
Superior Court of Fulton County; judges; increase amount of supplement Sens. David Shafer (48th); Judson Hill (32nd) and Kasim Reed (35th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07
Physicians; Composite State Board of Medical Examiners; enter into a contract with a nonprofit corporation; impaired physician program Sens. Don Thomas (54th); Renee Unterman (45th); Greg Goggans (7th) and Lee Hawkins (49th) Health and Human Services Committee 03/27/07
Bibb County Board of Tax Assessors; no person serving within the preceding 12 months shall be eligible to serve as an employee Sens. Robert Brown (26th) and Cecil Staton (18th) State and Local Government Committee 03/27/07
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx FH y GK

SB 315 SB 316 SB 317 SB 318 SB 319 SB 320 SB 398

Driver's Licenses; abolish Ga. Driver's Education Commission; transfer purposes/duties to State Board of Education Sen. Preston Smith (52nd) Public Safety Committee 03/27/07
Newton County; ad valorem taxes; school district maintenance/operations purposes; provide homestead exemption Sen. John Douglas (17th) State and Local Government Committee 03/27/07
Columbia County; authorize to exercise all redevelopment/other powers Sen. Jim Whitehead (24th) State and Local Government Committee 03/27/07
Courts; requesting judicial assistance from other courts; change certain provisions Sen. Ronnie Chance (16th) Judiciary Committee 03/27/07
Riverdale, City of; authorize to exercise all redevelopment/other powers Sens. Valencia Seay (34th) and Gail Davenport (44th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/28/07
Albany, City of; authorize to exercise all redevelopment/other powers Sen. Michael Meyer von Bremen (12th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/28/07
Fulton County Industrial District; create; prohibit governing authority from levying any tax for educational purposes Sens. Horacena Tate (38th) and Kasim Reed (35th) State and Local Government Operations Committee 03/19/07

[x U|M

HB 16 HB 30 HB 48 HB 69

Public employees; fraud, waste, abuse in state operations; change definitions Reps. Rich Golick (34th); Steve Tumlin (38th); Edward Lindsey (54th); Mark Hatfield (177th); Mike Jacobs (80th) and others Ethics Committee 03/20/07
Housing authorities; private enterprise agreement; redefine Rep. Jill Chambers (81st) Finance Committee 03/01/07
Public employees; fraud, waste, abuse in state operations; change definitions Reps. Jill Chambers (81st); Timothy Bearden (68th) and Harry Geisinger (48th) Appropriations Committee 03/20/07
Driver's records; online; Department of Driver Services; charging fee; prohibit Rep. Bobby Franklin (43rd) Public Safety Committee 03/19/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx FI y GK

HB 77 HB 94 HB 107 HB 109 HB 127 HB 144 HB 147 HB 148 HB 177 HB 181 HB 182

Motor vehicles; traffic-control signal monitoring devices; repeal provisions Reps. Barry Loudermilk (14th); Martin Scott (2nd); Bobby Franklin (43rd); John Lunsford (110th); Robert Mumford (95th) and others Public Safety Committee 03/27/07
Supplemental appropriations; State Fiscal Year July 1, 2006 - June 30, 2007 Reps. Edward Lindsey (54th); Joe Wilkinson (52nd); Rob Teilhet (40th); Steve Tumlin (38th); Mike Jacobs (80th) and Harry Geisinger (48th) Appropriations Committee 03/27/07
Municipal government; additional requirements; certain franchise fees; provisions Reps. Jan Jones (46th); Mark Burkhalter (50th); Tom Rice (51st); James Mills (25th) and Carl Rogers (26th) Regulated Industries and Utilities Committee 03/01/07
County and municipality; consolidation; provisions Reps. Ellis Black (174th); Jay Shaw (176th); Amy Carter (175th) and Mark Hatfield (177th) State and Local Government Committee 03/27/07
Prescription drugs; generic; change provisions Reps. Charlice Byrd (20th); Sean Jerguson (22nd); Earl Ehrhart (36th); Ed Rynders (152nd) and Calvin Hill (21st) Health and Human Services Committee 03/01/07
Motor vehicles; used; sale or advertising; change certain exceptions Reps. Bobby Reese (98th); Mike Coan (101st); John Lunsford (110th); Terry Johnson (37th) and Ronald Forster (21st) Regulated Industries Committee 03/19/07
Woman's Right to Know Act; abortion; change certain provisions Reps. James Mills (25th); Donna Sheldon (105th); Barry Flemming (117th); Mike Coan (101st); David Ralston (7th) and others Health and Human Services Committee 03/20/07
Sales and use tax; aquariums; provide exemption Reps. Mark Burkhalter (60th) and Bob Smith (113th) Finance Committee 03/19/07
Historic sites; initial investigation; state archeologist; notice; require Reps. Martin Scott (2nd); Barry Loudermilk (14th); Jay Neal (1St) and Bobby Franklin (43rd) Natural Resources and the Environment Committee 03/27/07
Public safety and judicial facilities authorities; bond indebtedness; provide limitations Reps. Mike Jacobs (80th); Fran Millar (79th); Jill Chambers (81St); Kevin Levitas (82nd); Mary Oliver (83rd) and others State and Local Government Operations Committee 03/27/07
Property tax digest; positive tax allocation increments; prohibit use Reps. Charles Martin (47th); Richard Royal (171st); Martin Scott (2nd) and Roger Williams (4th) Finance Committee 03/01/07
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx FJ y GK

HB 183 HB 185
HB 186 HB 191 HB 208 HB 214 HB 218 HB 219 HB 225 HB 227 HB 229

Motor vehicles; certificates of title; definitions; change certain provisions Reps. Tommy Benton (31st) and Alan Powell (29th) Finance Committee 03/19/07
Death penalty; jury findings; aggravating circumstance; change provisions Reps. Barry Fleming (117th); Willie Talton (145th); Melvin Everson (106th); Timothy Bearden (68th); Jerry Keen (179th) and others Judiciary Committee 03/27/07
Sales and use tax; certain alternative fuel facilities; five year exemption Reps. Jim Cole (125th); Larry O'Neal (146th); Vance Smith(129th); Rich Golick (34th); Gene Maddox (172nd) and others Finance Committee 03/27/07
Colquitt County Board of Education; nonpartisan elections; provide Reps. Richard Royal (17th); Ed Rynders (152nd) and Penny Houston (170th) State and Local Government Operations Committee 03/19/07
School councils; parent members; majority; provide Reps. Jan Jones (46th); Edward Lindsey (54th); Jill Chambers (81st); Willie Talton (145th) and Mike Coan (101st) Education Committee 03/19/07
Jekyll Island - State Park Authority; renewal of property lease; provisions Reps. Terry Barnard (166th); Lynn Smith (70th); Ron Stephens (164th); Don Parsons (42nd); Bob Lane (158th) and others Natural Resources and the Environment Committee 03/27/07
Jekyll Island - State Park Authority; renewal of property lease; provisions Reps. Terry Barnard (166th); Lynn Smith (70th); Ron Stephens (164th); Don Parsons (42nd); Bob Lane (158th) and others Natural Resources and the Environment Committee 03/27/07
Certain local sales and use tax; motor fuels; prepayments; provisions Reps. Richard Royal (171st); Larry O'Neal (146th); Jay Roberts (154th) and Ellis Black (174th) Finance Committee 03/20/07
State income tax; certain college savings plans; change certain provisions Reps. Richard Royal (171st); Rich Golick (34th); Jay Roberts (154th); Jerry Keen (179th); Larry O'Neal (146th) and others Finance Committee 03/01/07
Georgia Ports Authority; employees; power of arrest; peace officers; require Reps. Burke Day (163rd) Public Safety Committee 03/27/07
Education lottery; book allowances; fee payments; impose certain limitations Reps. Ben Harbin (118th); Bill Hembree (67th) and Bob Smith (113th) Higher Education Committee 03/27/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx FK y GK

HB 243 HB 247 HB 270
HB 274 HB 280 HB 286 HB 311 HB 312 HB 313 HB 315 HB 316

HOPE scholarships; eligible postsecondary institution; revise definition Reps. Bill Hembree (67th); Earl Ehrhart (36th); Bob Smith (113th); David Knight (126th); Pat Gardner (57th) and others Higher Education Committee 03/19/07
Local government; water and sewer systems; change certain provisions Reps. Bob Smith (113th); Jay Shaw (176th); Carl Roberts (154th); Ron Stephens (164th); Terry England (108th) and others State and Local Government Operations Committee 03/19/07
Juvenile proceedings; appointment of guardian ad litem; change provisions Reps. David Ralston (7th); Tommy Benton (31st); Mary Margaret Oliver (83rd); Buddy Carter (159th); Barry Fleming (117th) and others Judiciary Committee 03/19/07
Notaries; qualifications; application; change certain provisions Reps. Edward Lindsey (54th) and Margaret Kaiser (59th) Judiciary Committee 03/01/07
Controlled substances; sale of marijuana flavored products to minors; ban Reps. Judy Manning (32nd); Terry Johnson, (37th); Steve Tumlin (38th); Rob Teilhet (40th); Robert Mumford (95th) and others Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee 03/27/07
Controlled substances; Schedule II and V; change certain provisions Reps. Ron Stephens (164th); Butch Parrish (156th) and Buddy Carter (159th) Health and Human Services Committee 03/20/07
Georgia HERO Scholarship; qualifying term of service; change definition Reps. Barry Fleming (117th); Ben Harbin (118th); Larry O'Neal (146th); John Yates (73rd); Willie Talton (145th) and others Higher Education Committee 03/01/07
Braselton, Town of; Redevelopment Powers Law; authorize Reps. Tommy Benton (31st); Terry England (108th) and Donna Sheldon (105th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/01/07
Georgia Correctional Industries Administration; certain inmate work programs; clarify Rep. Terry Barnard (166th) State Institutions and Property Committee 03/19/07
Town of Braselton Community Improvement District Act; enact Reps. Tommy Benton (31st); Terry England (108th); Donna Sheldon (105th) and James Mills (25th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/01/07
Public Service Commission; towing of certain vehicles; provide Reps. David Ralston (7th); Johnny Floyd (147th); Carl Rogers (26th); Tommy Smith (168th); Ben Bridges (10th) and others State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/01/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx FL y GK

HB 317 HB 318 HB 321 HB 330 HB 354 HB 363 HB 366 HB 374 HB 375 HB 386 HB 389 HB 408

Public transportation; motor contract carrier; change definition Reps. David Ralston (7th); Johnny Floyd (147th); Carl Rogers (26th); Tommy Smith (168th); Ben Bridges (10th) and others State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/01/07
Public Retirement Systems Investment Authority Law; change certain provisions Reps. Tommy Benton (31st); Brooks Coleman (97th); Ben Bridges (10th); John Meadows (5th) and Howard Maxwell (17th) Retirement Committee 03/27/07
Bona fide conservation use property; assessment; change certain eligibility requirements Reps. Richard Royal (171st) and Jay Roberts (154th) Finance Committee 03/20/07
Georgia State Board of Pharmacy; registry of pharmacy technicians; establish Rep. Ron Stephens (164th) Health and Human Services Committee 03/01/07
Local government; homeowner tax relief grant notification; provisions Rep. Larry O'Neal (146th) Finance Committee 03/01/07
HOPE grants; eligibility requirements; Georgia Military College students; provide Reps. Larry O'Neal (146th) and Ben Harbin (118th) Higher Education Committee 03/27/07
Guide or service dog; certain persons; equal public accommodations; provide Reps. Timothy Bearden (68th); John Meadows (5th) and Steve Tumlin (38th) State Institutions and Property Committee 03/20/07
Hotel motel tax; definitions; change certain provisions Rep. James Mills (25th); Ron Stephens (164th); Butch Parrish (156th) and Jay Shaw (176th) Finance Committee 03/19/07
Education; pages of General Assembly; provisions Reps. Doug Collins (27th); Brooks Coleman (97th); Tommy Benton (31st); Howard Maxwell (17th); Barry Fleming (117th) and others Education and Youth Committee 03/01/07
Superior court fees; instrument recordings; provide additional fees Reps. Roger Lane (167th) and Wendell Williard (49th) Judiciary Committee 03/01/07
Public transportation; limousine carrier; change definition; provisions Reps. Jeff Lewis (15th); Earl Ehrhart (36th) and Kevin Levitas (82nd) Transportation Committee 03/27/07
Insolvency funds exclusion; certain companies; provide exception Rep. Tom Knox (24th) Insurance and Labor Committee 03/27/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx GC y GK

HB 410 HB 424 HB 429 HB 433 HB 443 HB 448 HB 457 HB 459 HB 487 HB 496 HB 505 HB 510

Municipal Option Sales Tax Act; enact Reps. Bob Hanner (148th); Richard Royal (171st) and Gerald Greene (149th) Finance Committee 03/19/07
Workers' compensation; claim filings; benefits; examinations; provisions Reps. Mike Coan (101st); Bobby Reese (98th); Mark Hamilton (23rd); Clay Cox (102nd); Earl Carter (159th) and others Insurance and Labor Committee 03/27/07
Georgia HIV Pregnancy Screening Act of 2007; enact Reps. Sharon Cooper (41st); Sistie Hudson (124th); Lynn Smith (70th) and Judy Manning (32nd) Health and Human Service Committee 03/20/07
Meat and dairy processing plants; licenses; change certain provisions Reps. Tony Sellier (136th); Tom McCall (30th); Terry England (108th); Gene Maddox (172nd) and Jay Roberts (154th) Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee 03/20/07
Employment security; employment; change definition; provisions Reps. Mike Coan (101st); Jimmy Pruett (144th); Martin Scott (2nd); Rob Teilhet (40th); Terry England (108th); and others Insurance and Labor Committee 03/01/07
Retirement; term life insurance; certain eligible persons; establish two funds Reps. Ben Bridges (10th) and Howard Maxwell (17th) Retirement Committee 03/19/07
Revenue, Department of; special license plates; process all applications; provisions Rep. Tom Rice (51st) Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee 03/20/07
Rockdale Judicial Circuit; judges; compensation supplement; change amount Reps. Robert Mumford (95th); Ron Stephens (92nd); Randal Mangham (94th) and Ron Sailor (93rd) State and Local Government Operations Committee 03/20/07
Elections; primaries; voting; provisions Reps. Austin Scott (153rd); Jerry Keen (179th); Mark Burkhalter (50th) and Barry Fleming (117th) Ethics Committee 03/27/07
Arlington, City of; provide new charter Rep. Gerald Greene (149th) State and Local Government Operations Committee 03/19/07
Human Resources, Department of; adult day centers; licensure; authorize charge fees Rep. Mark Butler (18th) Finance Committee 03/19/07
Boating safety zones; Lake Oconee; certain vessels; change certain provisions Rep. Mickey Channell (116th) and Butch Parrish (156th) Natural Resources and the Environment Committee 03/19/07
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx GD y GK

HB 511 HB 518 HB 523 HB 524 HB 529 HB 533 HB 536 HB 537 HB 538 HB 539 HB 543 HB 547

Gordon County; board of commissioners; districts; change description Reps. John Meadows (5th) and Tom Graves (12th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/01/07
Motor vehicles; commercial motor vehicle; define; license plates; provisions Rep. Tom Rice (51st) Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee 03/20/07
City of Johns Creek Public Buildings and Facilities Authority; create Reps. Mark Burkhalter (50th); Wendell Willard (49th); Jan Jones (46th); Tom Rice (51st) and Charles Martin (47th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/19/07
City of Johns Creek Parks and Recreation Authority; create Reps. Mark Burkhalter (50th); Wendell Willard (49th); Jan Jones (46th); Tom Rice (51st) and Charles Martin (47th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/19/07
General Assembly; budgetary functions; reflect changes Reps. Richard Royal (171st); Ben Harbin (118th); Jerry Keen (179th); Bobby Reese (98th); Calvin Hill (21st) and others Appropriations Committee 03/20/07
Gwinnett County Merit System Act; enact Reps. Bobby Reese (98th); Clay Cox (102nd); Melvin Everson (106th); Brooks Coleman (97th); Len Walker (107th) and others State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/27/07
Vehicles and loads; fines for excess weight; provisions Reps. Johnny Floyd (147th); Mark Williams (178th); Tom McCall (30th); Mark Hatfield (177th); Tom Graves (12th) and others Transportation Committee 03/27/07
Cobb County State Court; clerk and chief deputy clerk; change compensation Reps. Earl Ehrhart (36th); Terry Johnson (37th); Judy Manning (32nd); Sharon Cooper (41st); Bobby Franklin (43rd) and others State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/01/07
Cobb County; tax collector and receiver offices; certain employees; change compensation Reps. Earl Ehrhart (36th); Terry Johnson (37th); Judy Manning (32nd); Sharon Cooper (41st); Bobby Franklin (43rd) and others State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/01/07
Cobb County; Board of Education; school attendance zones; revise procedures Reps. Earl Ehrhart (36th); Terry Johnson (37th); Judy Manning (32nd); Sharon Cooper (41st); Bobby Franklin (43rd) and others State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/01/07
Effingham County Industrial Development Authority; subject to county zoning ordinances; provide Reps. Earl Carter (159th) and Jon Burns (157th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/01/07
Duluth, City of; Redevelopment Powers Law; authorize Reps. Brooks Coleman (97th) and Tom Rice (51st) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx GE y GK

HB 549 HB 552 HB 555 HB 559
HB 573 HB 574 HB 575 HB 576 HB 580 HB 582 HB 600
HB 601 HB 615

Children with disabilities; basic therapy services; establish requirements Rep. Mark Burkhalter (50th) Appropriations Committee 03/27/07
Snellville, City of; Redevelopment Powers Law; authorize Reps. Melvin Everson (106th) and David Casas (103rd) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
Clinch County; board of elections and registration; create Rep. Jay Shaw (176th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/19/07
Health insurance; charter school teachers and employees; provisions Reps. Margaret Kaiser (59th); Donna Sheldon (105th); Kathy Ashe (56th); Jan Jones (46th); Mable Thomas (55th) and others Education and Youth Committee 03/27/07
Lyons, City of; ad valorem tax; provide homestead exemption Rep. Greg Morris (155th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/19/07
Vidalia, City of; ad valorem tax; school district; provide homestead exemption Rep. Greg Morris (155th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/19/07
Santa Claus, City of; ad valorem tax; provide homestead exemption Rep. Greg Morris (155th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/19/07
Vidalia, City of; ad valorem tax; provide homestead exemption Rep. Greg Morris (155th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/19/07
Pierce County; Board of Education; members; salary and expenses; provide Rep. Mark Williams (178th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/19/07
Lanier County; probate judge serves as chief magistrate; January 1, 2009; provide Rep. Jay Shaw (176th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/19/07
Cobb County Probate Court; chief investigator and others; change compensation Reps. Don Parsons (42nd); Steve Tumlin (38th); Don Wix (33rd); Rob Teilhet (40th); Judy Manning (32nd) and others State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07
Jackson County; new commissioner districts; provisions Reps. Tommy Benton (31st) and Tom McCall (30th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07
Bulloch County; coroner; compensation and expenses; change certain provisions Reps. Bob Lane (158th); Jon Burns (157th) and Butch Parrish (156th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx GF y GK

HB 616 HB 618 HB 621 HB 623
HB 624 HB 632
HB 633 HB 643 HB 644 HB 645 HB 647 HB 657 HB 660

McIntosh County; county manager; provide Rep. Roger Lane (167th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07
Union City, City of; ad valorem tax; 65 years or older; provide homestead exemption Reps. Virgil Fludd (66th) and Sharon Beasley-Teague (65th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07
Cobb County Probate Court; judge and clerk; change compensation Reps. Terry Johnson (37th); Sheila Jones (44th); Rob Teilhet (40th); Rich Golick (34th); Steve Tumlin (38th) and others State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07
Cobb Judicial Circuit; superior court judges; provide supplement Reps. Rich Golick (34th); Steve Tumlin (38th); Rob Teilhet (40th); Earl Ehrhart (36th) and Judy Manning (32nd) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07
Cobb County; Board of Commissioners; change compensation Reps. Ed Setzler (35th); Rich Golick (34th); Steve Tumlin (38th); Terry Johnson (37th); Judy Manning (32nd) and others State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07
Woodstock, City of; advalorem tax; municipal purposes; provide homestead exemption Reps. Sean Jerguson (22nd); Calvin Hill (21st); Charlice Byrd (20th); and Mark Hamilton (23rd) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07
Woodstock, City of; ad valorem tax; city purposes; provide homestead exemption Reps. Sean Jerguson (22nd); Calvin Hill (21st); Charlice Byrd (20th) and Mark Hamilton (23rd) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/20/07
Oakwood, City of; Redevelopment Powers Law; authorize Reps. James Mills (25th) and Carl Rogers (26th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/27/07
Oakwood, City of; provide new charter Reps. James Mills (25th) and Carl Rogers (26th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/27/07
City of Oakwood Community Improvement District Act; enact Reps. James Mills (25th) and Carl Rogers (26th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/27/07
Kennesaw, City of; corporate city limits; change provisions Reps. Ed Setzler (35th); Steve Tumlin (38th); Sharon Cooper (41st); Terry Johnson (37th); Don Wix (33rd) and others State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
Stone Mountain, City of; Redevelopment Powers Law; authorize Rep. Billy Mitchell (88th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/27/07
Peach County; board of elections and registration; create Rep. Billy Mitchell (88th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/27/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx GG y GK

HB 688 HB 689 HB 690 HB 693 HB 694 HB 696 HB 697 HB 698 HB 700
HB 702 HB 703
HB 704 HB 705

Hancock County; Board of Education; member terms; change provisions Rep. Sistie Hudson (124th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
Auburn, City of; change corporate boundaries; deannex certain property Reps. Terry England (108th) and Donna Sheldon (105th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
Cook County; Magistrate Court; chief magistrate; provisions Rep. Penny Houston (170th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
Heard County; school district taxes; citizens age 65 or older; increase homestead exemption Reps. Randy Nix (69th) and Lynn Smith (70th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
Franklin-Heard County Water Authority; quorum; unanimous vote; provide Reps. Randy Nix (69th) and Lynn Smith (70th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
Alamo, City of; provide new charter Reps. Jay Roberts (154th) and Greg Morris (155th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
Jackson County; board of county commissioners; change voting by chairperson Reps. Tommy Benton (31st) and Tom McCall (30th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
Cartersville, City of; Redevelopment Powers Law; authorize Rep. Jeff Lewis (15th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
DeKalb County; county budget; certain constitutional officers; provide exemption Reps. Earnest Williams (89th); Fran Millar (79th); Stephanie Benfield (85th); Mary Oliver (83rd); Kevin Levitas (82nd) and others State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
Pine Lake, City of; Redevelopment Powers Law; authorize Rep. Michele Henson (87th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
Clayton County; Magistrate Court; chief magistrate; provide annual salary increases Reps. Darryl Jordan (77th); Celeste Johnson (75th); Joe Heckstall (62nd); Mike Glanton (76th); Georganna Sinkfield (60th) and others State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
Clayton County; sheriff; compensation; change provisions Reps. Darryl Jordan (77th); Joe Heckstall (62nd); Celeste Johnson (75th); Georganna Sinkfield (60th) and Roberta Abdul-Salaam (74th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
Board of Elections and Registration of Effingham County; create Reps. Earl Carter (159th) and Jon Burns (157th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx GH y GK

HB 706 HB 708 HB 712
HB 723 HB 724

Effingham County; county surveyor; abolish elected office; provide appointment Reps. Earl Carter (159th) and Jon Burns (157th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
Dallas, City of; certain officials; provisions Reps. Howard Maxwell (17th) and Glenn Richardson (19th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
DeKalb County; require school uniforms; provide nonbinding advisory referendum Reps. Randal Mangham (94th); Earnest Williams (89th); Stan Watson (91st); Howard Mosby (90th); Stephanie Benfield (85th) and others State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
Charlton County; board of education districts; change provisions Rep. Mark Hatfield (177th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07
Charlton County; commissioner districts; change provisions Rep. Mark Hatfield (177th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 03/29/07

[x ex|M

HR 14

Walter E. "Eddie" Elder Interchange; Barrow County; dedicate Reps. Terry England (108th) and Tommy Benton (31st) Transportation Committee 03/01/07

HR 246

Board of Regents; urge to establish intercollegiate wrestling programs Reps. James Mills (25th); Bill Hembree (67th); Carl Rogers (26th); Bob Smith (113th); Doug Collins (27th) and others Higher Education Committee 03/19/07

HR 102 HR 195 HR 321

Clark, Mr. Robert; compensate; provide for state income tax exclusion Reps. Larry O'Neal (146th); Willie Talton (145th); Lynn Smith (70th) and Melvin Everson (106th) Appropriations Committee 03/20/07
Hospitality Highway; dedicate GA 400 Reps. Amos Amerson (9th); Mark Burkhalter (50th); Jan Jones (46th); Mark Hamilton (23rd); Tom Knox (24th) and others Transportation Committee 03/27/07
Edward Sidney "Dick" Chambers Memorial Highway; dedicate Rep. Richard Royal (171st) Transportation Committee 03/27/07

HR 351

Joint Study Committee on Fulton County; create Reps. Edward Lindsey (54th); Bob Holmes (61st); Wendell Willard (49th); Kathy Ashe (56th); Jan Jones (46th) and others State and Local Government Operations Committee 03/27/07

HR 369

Baldwin, Charlton, Chatham, Coffee, and Columbia counties; convey property; authorize Rep. Terry Barnard (166th) State Institutions and Property Committee 03/27/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx GI y GK

HR 370

Bibb, Cobb, Dougherty, Mitchell and Troup Counties; lease property; authorize Rep. Terry Barnard (166th) State Institutions and Property Committee 03/27/07

g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx GJ y GK

fxtx cx byy|vx ftyy
`x| `A Utx
Director
]xx T|x{
Deputy Director
V{| Ut|x
Communications Specialist
^tt| e|v{tw
Communications Specialist
_tvx `v_tz{|
Media Liaison
Twxt Wx_x
Session Aide
ettx Zt{t
Session Aide
^x|{ _t|z
Session Aide
]{ gA f|{
Session Aide
fxtx cx byy|vx
201 Paul D. Coverdell Legislative Office Building 18 Capitol Square
Atlanta, Georgia 30334 404.656.0028 or outside the Atlanta area 800.282.5803
g{| jxx~ `tv{ FC? ECCJ
ctzx GK y GK