The Georgia Senate this week, Feb. 7, 2008

Senate passes unlicensed drivers bill

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n a move to curtail the growing problem of unlicensed driving in the state, the Senate passed legislation, authored by Sen. John Wiles of the 37th, to stiffen penalties for those who operate a motor vehicle without a license. Senate Bill

350 passed the Senate by a vote of 38 to 13 and now goes to the House of Representatives for

consideration.

"SB 350 closes a loophole in our current code, which allows unlicensed drivers a certain amount of leniency," said Sen. Wiles from the Well. "The urgent need for these tougher penalties is exemplified by the tragic death of Cobb County Sheriff's Deputy Loren Lilly, who was killed by an unlicensed driver in my district on New Year's Eve 2006."

SB 350 will increase the penalties for those found operating a vehicle without ever having been issued a valid driver's license or on a suspended or revoked license. Under the new law, an individual found driving without being licensed or driving on a suspended, disqualified or revoked license could be sentenced to at least two days imprisonment for the first offense. Any second or third offense within five years, and that individual would be subject to at least ten days imprisonment and a fine of at least $1000. A fourth or subsequent offense within five years would be treated by the courts as a felony. The new penalties would not apply to drivers who forget to have a valid license on their person or those driving on an expired license.
The Governor vetoed a similar piece of legislation last year, saying he feared unintended consequences from the wording of the measure. Sen. Wiles revised the language that concerned Gov. Perdue, and reintroduced it earlier this year.
As Sen. Wiles presented the bill in the Senate, he recognized Jamie Lilly, widow of Deputy Lilly, who was sitting in the Senate Gallery. Deputy Lilly, 41, was killed in 2006 at the intersection of Powder Springs Street and Baltimore Place, after a car driven by a man who had never been issued a Georgia drivers license collided with his Honda Civic. Lilly was pronounced dead at the scene.
"Our current law allows those who drive a car without a license to get off with a slap on the wrist," Sen. Wiles added. "I think this bill sends a message, and that message is `If you want to drive in Georgia, get a drivers license'."

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Reservoir Development and Drought Relief Act passes Senate overwhelmingly
The Senate passed the Reservoir Development and Drought Relief Act this week 44-1. The legislation, authored by Sen. Chip Pearson of the 51st was the result of a "real, long-term solution to some of Georgia's water issues."
Last year, Sen. Pearson joined together with Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle and Speaker Richardson to underscore Georgia's need for enhanced water storage. The Reservoir Development and Drought Relief Act will make the state of Georgia a partner with local governments and water authorities in enhancing the state's water storage capacity.
Under the legislation, communities will be able to apply for funding to enlarge existing reservoirs and obtain permits to construct new ones. Additionally, the bill will make the state a true partner with local communities to secure federal permits necessary to build reservoirs by offering a one-stop shop for all of the state components of a federal reservoir application. The bill will tighten deadlines for the EPD to make a final determination of permit application for federal purposes as well as approving state permits.
"It is critically important to increase our water supply in order to avoid crisis like the one we are in today," Sen. Pearson said. "By partnering with local governments and water authorities as well as cutting through some of the red tape that comes with reservoir development, we are confident we can capture more rainfall and meet the needs of our state.
Lt. Governor Casey Cagle: Resolution Will Move Transportation Funding Forward
Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle has announced that the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST) resolution has been filed in the State Senate and will bring a funding solution to transportation needs of our state.
"It is time we take action, and the first step toward a funding option for transportation needs in Georgia is to allow our citizens to decide how they want their transportation dollars to be spent," said Lt. Gov. Cagle.
The TSPLOST Resolution will amend the Georgia Constitution so that as of May 1, 2009 individual counties can voluntarily propose to their citizens a new 1-cent sales tax for transportation projects. Similar to previous SPLOSTs, each proposal is required to list the projects the TSPLOST will pay for, the cost of those projects, and the length of time that the tax will be in effect.
Eighty percent of revenue collected through the TSPLOST will be returned to the participating county for projects. At least ten percent of the remaining funds will be used by the state for constructing, maintaining and operating mass transit. The resolution gives the General Assembly a deadline of April 1 to establish a framework by which counties can voluntarily join together into regions and combine their tax for projects of regional significance. This will happen before counties can initiate the TSPLOST.
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(Friday, February 1 Thursday, February 7)

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SR 789

Georgia's Registered Nurses; commend; Sen. Renee Unterman (45th) Read and adopted 02/01/08

SR 790

Rural Health day; recognize February 12, 2008 Sens. Greg Goggans (7th); Don Thomas (54th); Preston Smith (52nd); Cecil Staton (18th); John Douglas (17th) and Jeff Chapman (3rd) Read and adopted 02/01/08

SR 791

G.W. Carver High School Football Team; congratulate Sens. Ed Harbison (15th) and Seth Harp (29th) Read and adopted 02/01/08

SR 792

Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce; recognize Sen. Ed Tarver (22nd) Read and adopted 02/01/08

SR 793

Knox, Jr., Mayor Bob; recognize Sens. Bill Jackson (24th); Johnny Grant (25th); John Douglas (17th) and Greg Goggans (7th) Read and adopted 02/01/08

SR 794

Hooper, Jr., Chief Roy Franklin; commend Sen. Lee Hawkins (49th) Read and adopted 02/01/08

SR 795

Cronic, Sheriff Steve; commend Sen. Lee Hawkins (49th) Read and adopted 02/01/08

SR 796

Ad Valorem Tax Reform; freeze valuation of real property except certain adjustments; procedures, conditions, and limitations for certain increases Sens. Chip Rogers (21st); Tommie Williams (19th); Jeff Mullis (53rd); Chip Pearson (51st); Dan Moody (56th) and David Shafer (48th) Finance Committee 02/01/08

SR 797

Stanley, Sr., Mr. R.T.; Mr. R.T. Stanley Jr., recognize Sens. Tommie Williams (19th) and Jack Hill (4th) Read and adopted 02/01/08

SR 798

Luikart, Lieutenant Colonel Kenneth; commend Sens. Jack Hill (4th) and Eric Johnson (1st) Read and adopted 02/05/08

SR 799

Mary Hines Johnson Day; proclaim February 9, 2008 Sen. Mitch Seabaugh (28th) Read and adopted 02/05/08

SR 800

Lakly, Mr. Daniel; condolences Sens. Ronnie Chance (16th); Valencia Seay (34th); Mitch Seabaugh (28th); Chip Rogers (21st); Eric Johnson (1st) and John Wiles (37th) Read and adopted 02/05/08

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SR 801 SR 802 SR 803 SR 804 SR 805 SR 806 SR 807 SR 808 SR 809
SR 810 SR 811 SR 812 SR 813 SR 814

Greene, Mrs. Julie; recognize Sen. George Hooks (14th) Read and Adopted 02/05/08
Bland, Delbert; commend Sens. Jack Hill (4th) and Tommie Williams (19th) Read and adopted 02/01/08
Emanuel County Institute Bulldogs; congratulate Sen. Jack Hill (4th) Read and adopted 02/01/08
Atlanta Fine Arts League, Inc.; recognize Sen. John Douglas (17th) Read and adopted 02/06/08
Darton College Golf Team; commend Sen. Michael Meyer von Bremen (12th) Read and adopted 02/06/08
St. Philip Monumental A.M.E. Church; recognize Sen. Regina Thomas (2nd) Read and adopted 02/06/08
Savannah Community Church/ Give Kids A Smile Program; commend Sen. Regina Thomas (2nd) Read and adopted 02/06/08
Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History; recognize Sen. Ed Tarver (22nd) Read and adopted 02/06/08
Congress, Governmental Agencies, Automobile Industry; urged to substitute the term "life belt" to "seat belt" and "life bag" to "air bag" Sens. Emanuel Jones (10th); Robert Brown (26th); Eric Johnson (1st); Valencia Seay (34th); Jeff Chapman (3rd); Steve Henson (41st) and others Public Safety Committee 02/06/08
Democracy Restored: A History of the Georgia State Capital; recognize Sens. George Hooks (14th); Eric Johnson (1st) and Don Balfour (9th) Read and adopted 02/06/08
William Harvey Jewell, Sr. Memorial Bridge; Berrien-Atkinson County; dedicate Sen. Greg Goggans (7th) Transportation Committee 02/06/08
Shellie W. Parrish Memorial Bridge; Berrien County; dedicate Sen. Greg Goggans (7th) Transportation Committee 02/06/08
Lucious Murphy Jacobs Bridge; Berrien County; dedicate Sen. Greg Goggans (7th) Transportation Committee 02/06/08
Virgil T. Barber Bridge; Berrien County; dedicate Sen. Greg Goggans (7th) Transportation Committee 02/06/08

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SR 815 SR 816 SR 817 SR 818 SR 819 SR 820 SR 821 SR 822
SR 823 SR 824 SR 825 SR 827
SR 828

Hubert F. Comer Memorial Bridge; Berrien County; dedicate Sen. Greg Goggans (7th) Transportation Committee 02/06/08
Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA); recognize Sens. Lee Hawkins (49th) and Jack Murphy (27th) Read and adopted 02/06/08
Future Farmers of America; recognize Sens. John Bulloch (11th); Ralph Hudgens (47th); Ross Tolleson (20th); Jack Hill (4th); Bill Heath (31st); Joseph Carter (13th) and others Read and adopted 02/06/08
Georgia Farmer Bureau Federation; recognize Sens. John Bulloch (11th); Ralph Hudgens (47th); Ross Tolleson (20th); Jack Hill (4th); Bill Heath (31st); Joseph Carter (13th) and others Read and adopted 02/06/08
Senate Comprehensive Firearms Law Study Committee; create Sens. Mitch Seabaugh (28th); Jack Murphy (27th); Chip Rogers (21st); Ralph Hudgens (47th); Dan Moody (56th); Jack Hill (4th) and others Judiciary Committee 02/06/08
Joint Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Study Committee; create Sens. Jeff Mullis (53rd) and Ross Tolleson (20th) Natural Resources and the Environment Committee 02/06/08
Stokes, Alyssa; commend Sen. Judson Hill (32nd) Read and adopted 02/06/08
Georgia-North Carolina and Georgia-Tennessee Boundary Line Commission; create; appointment Sens. David Shafer (48th); Jeff Mullis (53rd); Kasim Reed (35th); Chip Pearson (51st); Preston Smith (52nd); Don Thomas (54th) and others Read and adopted 02/07/08
Lee, Emory; condolences Sen. Mitch Seabaugh (28th) Read and adopted 02/07/08
Starr, Mr. Wade; condolences Sen. Gail Davenport (44th) Read and adopted 02/07/08
Excelsior Electric Membership Corporation; recognize Sen. Jack Hill (4th) Read and adopted 02/07/08
U.S. Congress; urged to withdraw the United States from the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America Sens. Nancy Schaefer (50th); Ralph Hudgens (47th); Renee Unterman (45th); Jeff Chapman (3rd); Cecil Staton (18th); John Douglas (17th) and others Veterans, Military and Homeland Security Committee 02/07/08
Jones, Miss Hannah Lee; recognize Sens. Joseph Carter (13th); George Hooks (14th) and John Bulloch (11th) Read and adopted 02/07/08

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SR 829 SR 830

Cordele-Crisp County Fish Fry; recognize Sens. Joseph Carter (13th); George Hooks (14th) and John Bulloch (11th) Read and adopted 02/07/08
Shope, Mr. Grant, Mr. Jake Baudin, Mr. Cody Hall; commend Sen. Chip Pearson (51st) Read and adopted 02/07/08

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SB 383

Ga. Affordable HSA Eligible High Deductible Health Plan; Insurance Commissioner; adopt policies to promote, approve, and encourage Sens. Judson Hill (32nd); Ronnie Chance (16th); Ralph Hudgens (47th); Don Thomas (54th); Chip Rogers (21st) and Joseph Carter (13th) Insurance and Labor Committee 02/01/08

SB 391

Secretary of State; authorize/procure a website service provider; public notice website; definitions; provide for certain requirements Sens. Cecil Staton (18th); Bill Heath (31st); John Douglas (17th); Chip Rogers (21st) and Ronnie Chance (16th) Science and Technology Committee 02/01/08

SB 392

Motor Vehicle Liability Policies; provide insured includes officers, agents, and employees of artificial persons; scope of their employment Sens. Cecil Staton (18th); Seth Harp (29th); Joseph Carter (13th) and Jack Murphy (27th) Insurance and Labor Committee 02/01/08

SB 393

Pawnbrokers; restrict local governments' power; payment of any fee for transactions/hours of operation Sens. Ronnie Chance (16th); Steve Thompson (33rd); Ed Tarver (22nd) and Cecil Staton (18th) Banking and Financial Institutions Committee 02/01/08

SB 394

Traffic-Control Signal Monitoring Devices; send portion of funds generated to trauma care network Sens. Renee Unterman (45th); John Wiles (37th); Bill Cowsert (46th); Bill Hamrick (30th); Mitch Seabaugh (28th) and Jack Murphy (27th) Public Safety Committee 02/01/08

SB 395

Indigent/Elderly Patients; establish safety net clinic grant program; provide definitions; purpose; eligibility; requirements Sens. Greg Goggans (7th); Eric Johnson (1st); Tommie Williams (19th); Bill Cowsert (46th); Lee Hawkins (49th) and Judson Hill (32nd) Health and Human Services Committee 01/18/08

SB 396

Administrative Services Dept.; remove/transfer functions; Council of Superior Court Judges of Ga., Prosecuting Attorneys' Council Sens. Bill Hamrick (30th); Preston Smith (52nd) and Ronnie Chance (16th) Judiciary Committee 02/01/08

SB 397

Bonds; issuance/validation; change certain provisions Sens. John Bulloch (11th); Cecil Staton (18th) and Michael Meyer von Bremen (12th) Finance Committee 02/01/08

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SB 398 SB 399 SB 400 SB 401 SB 402 SB 403 SB 404
SB 405 SB 406 SB 407

Powder Springs, City; provide for mayor's or city councilmembers terms and qualifications for office Sen. Steve Thompson (33rd) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/01/08
Tire Disposal Restrictions; fees imposed upon retail sale of new replacement tires collected; extend the period Sens. Ross Tolleson (20th); John Bulloch (11th); Steve Henson (41st) and Michael Meyer von Bremen (12th) Natural Resources and the Environment Committee 02/01/08
Forestry/Fire; enforcement of laws; punishment of certain violations; forestry investigators; provide for qualifications/powers Sens. Ross Tolleson (20th); John Bulloch (11th) and Michael Meyer von Bremen (12th) Natural Resources and the Environment Committee 02/01/08
Medical; agency interpretations of rules/regulations/policies shall prevail; investigation of improper payment of claims by health care providers Sens. Cecil Staton (18th); Joseph Carter (13th); Ronnie Chance (16th); Chip Rogers (21st); Johnny Grant (25th) and Bill Jackson (24th) Health and Human Services Committee 02/01/08
Georgia Coordinating Council for Rural and Human Services Transportation; establish; provide for membership, meetings, expenses Sens. Tommie Williams (19th); Doug Stoner (6th); Jeff Mullis (53rd); Chip Pearson (51st) and Valencia Seay (34th) Health and Human Services Committee 02/05/08
Labor; prompt payment of wages to employee following resignation/discharge; provide for penalties Sens. Steve Henson (41st); Gloria Butler (55th); Ron Ramsey (43rd); Kasim Reed (35th) and Horacena Tate (38th) Insurance and Labor Committee 02/05/08
Georgia Health Marketplace Act; provide access to health care products for Georgia consumers; provide for definitions; membership; powers Sens. Tommie Williams (19th); Greg Goggans (7th); Ralph Hudgens (47th); Chip Rogers (21st); Mitch Seabaugh (28th) and Lee Hawkins (49th) Health and Human Services Committee 02/05/08
Georgia Revised Uniform Anatomical Gift Act; enactment; definitions; provide for anatomical gift Sens. Don Balfour (9th); John Douglas (17th); Jack Murphy (27th); Bill Cowsert (46th); Lee Hawkins (49th) and Nancy Schaefer (50th) Judiciary Committee 02/05/08
Offenses; increase penalties for reproducing, transferring, selling, distributing certain recorded material; forfeiture of certain terms Sens. Bill Hamrick (30th); Jeff Mullis (53rd); Chip Rogers (21st) and Kasim Reed (35th) Judiciary Committee 02/05/08
Contractors; revise definition of a certain term for purposes of clarification Sens. Mitch Seabaugh (28th) and David Shafer (48th) Regulated Industries and Utilities Committee 02/05/08

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SB 408 SB 409 SB 410 SB 411 SB 412 SB 413 SB 414 SB 415 SB 416 SB 417

Local Government Franchising Authority; change certain provisions; telephone/telegraph companies Sens. David Shafer (48th); Bill Heath (31st); Jack Murphy (27th); Chip Rogers (21st); Bill Hamrick (30th) and Tim Golden (8th) Regulated Industries and Utilities Committee 02/06/08
Motorcycles; requiring operators/riders to use protective headgear; exempt certain persons from provisions Sens. Regina Thomas (2nd); Jeff Mullis (53rd); J. B. Powell (23rd) and Ed Tarver (22nd) Public Safety Committee 02/06/08
State Road/Tollway Authority; authorize to create a state congestion relief fund; community improvement districts Sens. Doug Stoner (6th); Tommie Williams (19th); Valencia Seay (34th); Chip Pearson (51st) and Jeff Mullis (53rd) Transportation Committee 02/06/08
Contracts; design-build procedure; eliminate the cap for awarding Sens. Tommie Williams (19th); Valencia Seay (34th); Jeff Mullis (53rd); Chip Pearson (51st) and Doug Stoner (6th) Transportation Committee 02/06/08
Motor Vehicles; change nomenclature from "air bag" to "life bag" and "safety belt" to "life belt" Sens. Emanuel Jones (10th); Robert Brown (26th); Eric Johnson (1st); Valencia Seay (34th); Jeff Chapman (3rd); Steve Henson (41st) and others Public Safety Committee 02/06/08
Boxing, Wrestling, Martial Arts; licensure/regulation; substantially/comprehensively revise provisions Sens. Eric Johnson (1st); David Shafer (48th); Ross Tolleson (20th); Steve Henson (41st) and Doug Stoner (6th) Regulated Industries and Utilities Committee 02/06/08
2008 Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training Council Act; revise definitions; provide for calling of meetings/quorum Sens. Jeff Mullis (53rd); Eric Johnson (1st); Jack Murphy (27th); Valencia Seay (34th); Jeff Chapman (3rd); Ross Tolleson (20th) and others Public Safety Committee 02/06/08
Juvenile Proceedings; Dept. of Human Resources emergency care/ supervision to a child without a court order; reduce allowed time Sens. Nancy Schaefer (50th); Tommie Williams (19th); Chip Pearson (51st); Jack Murphy (27th); John Douglas (17th); Robert Brown (26th) and others Judiciary Committee 02/06/08
Retirement; prohibit investment of retirement system assets in certain companies with certain business interests in certain governments Sens. Judson Hill (32nd); Tommie Williams (19th); Don Balfour (9th) and Renee Unterman (45th) Retirement Committee 02/06/08
Transportation Commissioner; required to develop/publish benchmarks; issue reports on the progress of construction projects Sens. Jeff Mullis (53rd); Valencia Seay (34th); Tommie Williams (19th); Doug Stoner (6th) and Chip Pearson (51st) Transportation Committee 02/07/08

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SB 418 SB 419 SB 420 SB 421 SB 422 SB 423 SB 424 SB 425 SB 426 SB 427 SB 428

Georgia Fire Safety Standard and Firefighter Protection Act; definitions; provide for standards for testing cigarettes; written certification Sens. Don Balfour (9th); Lee Hawkins (49th) and Bill Cowsert (46th) Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee 02/07/08
State Contracts; Administrative Services; certain contract specifications; interest payments where payments are owed and past due Sen. Curt Thompson (5th) State Institutions and Property Committee 02/07/08
Soil Erosion/Sedimentation; Dept. of Transportation/its contractors; exempt from civil penalties levied for violations Sens. Chip Pearson (51st); Jeff Mullis (53rd); Tommie Williams (19th); Chip Rogers (21st) and Ross Tolleson (20th) Transportation Committee 02/07/08
False Identification Documents; change penalties based upon the age of the convicted person/nature of crime Sens. Chip Pearson (51st); John Wiles (37th); Lee Hawkins (49th); Tommie Williams (19th) and Nancy Schaefer (50th) Judiciary Committee 02/07/08
Elections; establish polling places outside the boundaries of precincts Sen. Curt Thompson (5th) Ethics Committee 02/07/08
Mental Illness; prohibit the use of prior authorization; medications prescribed for patients under Medicaid fee for service program Sens. Johnny Grant (25th); Seth Harp (29th); Greg Goggans (7th); George Hooks (14th); David Adelman (42nd); Horacena Tate (38th) and others Health and Human Services Committee 02/07/08
Barber; obtaining license to practice; change certain requirements; provisions; provide exceptions Sen. Johnny Grant (25th) Regulated Industries and Utilities Committee 02/07/08
Insuring/Indemnification; Commissioner of Admin. Services; amend certain provisions; establish incentive programs Sen. Johnny Grant (25th) State Institutions and Property Committee 02/07/08
State-Owned Lands; prohibit construction of new private residential housing; prevent impairment of obligation of contracts Sens. Jeff Chapman (3rd); Renee Unterman (45th); Seth Harp (29th); Cecil Staton (18th); Ralph Hudgens (47th); Greg Goggans (7th) and others Economic Development Committee 02/07/08
Jekyll Island-State Park Authority; require certain restrictions in leases or deeds for certain property Sens. Jeff Chapman (3rd); Renee Unterman (45th); Seth Harp (29th); Cecil Staton (18th); Ralph Hudgens (47th); Greg Goggans (7th) and others Economic Development Committee 02/07/08
Jekyll Island-State Park Authority; define certain terms Sens. Jeff Chapman (3rd); Renee Unterman (45th); Seth Harp (29th); Cecil Staton (18th); Ralph Hudgens (47th); Greg Goggans (7th) and others Economic Development Committee 02/07/08
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HR 1158

Georgia BIO; commend Reps. Charlice Byrd (20th); Calvin Hill (21st); Jimmy Pruett (144th); Kevin Levitas (82nd); Hardie Davis (122nd) and Amos Amerson (9th) Economic Development Committee 02/05/08

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HB 387

Georgia Day; observe February 12; annually Reps. Barry Loudermilk (14th); Jerry Keen (179th); Mark Burkhalter (50th); Barry Fleming (117th); Jay Roberts (154th) and Donna Sheldon (105th) Rules Committee 02/07/08

HB 422

Specialized land transactions; minimum amount for liens; provide Rep. Wendell Willard (49th) Judiciary Committee 02/06/08

HB 857

Washington County; sheriff; change compensation Rep. Jimmy Lord (142nd) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/05/08

HB 869

DeKalb County; office of tax commissioner; change certain provisions Reps. Billy Mitchell (47th); Mary Oliver (83rd); Stan Watson (91st); Mike Jacobs (80th); Jill Chambers (81st) and Randal Mangham (94th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/05/08

HB 881

Georgia Charter Schools Commission; establish Reps. Jan Jones (46th); Brooks Coleman (97th); Edward Lindsey (54th); Fran Miller (79th); Melvin Everson (106th) and Donna Sheldon (105th) Education and Youth Committee 02/01/08

HB 926

Revenue and taxation; Internal Revenue Code; define term Rep. Larry O'Neal (146th) Finance Committee 02/06/08

HB 975

County or municipal corporations; authorizing documents; provisions Reps. Mark Burkhalter (50th); Jan Jones (46th); Wendell Willard (49th); Joe Wilkinson (52nd); Chuck Martin (47th) and Harry Geisinger (48th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/06/08

HB 1007

Lawrenceville, City of; Redevelopment Powers Law; authorize Reps. John Heard (104th) and Mike Coan (101st); State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/01/08

HB 1008

Oglethorpe County Water Authority; composition of members; change Reps. Mickey Channell (116th) and Bob Smith (113th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/01/08

HB 1010

Liberty County State Court; solicitor-general; change compensation Reps. Al Williams (165th); Terry Barnard (166th) and Ron Stephens (164th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/01/08

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HB 1011

Liberty County State Court; judge; full-time office; establish Reps. Al Williams (165th); Terry Barnard (166th) and Ron Stephens (164th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/01/08

HB 1012

Darien, City of; ad valorem tax; municipal purposes; provide homestead exemption Rep. Roger Lane (167th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/01/08

HB 1013

McIntosh County; school district ad valorem tax; residents 65 or over; provide homestead exemption Rep. Roger Lane (167th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/01/08

HB 1014

Georgia Higher Education Savings Plan; certain provisions; revise and change Reps. Richard Royal (171st); Jerry Keen (179th); Brooks Coleman (97th) and Bill Hembree (67th) Finance Committee 02/06/08

HB 1025

Garden City, City of; advisory referendum election; provide Reps. Bob Bryant (160th); Earl Carter (159th); Ron Stephens (164th); Lester Jackson (161st); Burke Day (163rd) and J. Craig Gordon (162nd) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/01/08

HB 1033

Edgehill, City of; provide new charter Rep. Sistie Hudson (124th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/07/08

HB 1038

Douglasville, City of; Redevelopment Powers Law; authorize Reps. Roger Bruce (64th); Bill Hembree (67th); Tyrone Brooks (63rd) and Timothy Bearden (68th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/05/08

HB 1039

Douglas County; Redevelopment Powers Law; authorize Reps. Roger Bruce (64th); Bill Hembree (67th); Tyrone Brooks (63rd) and Timothy Bearden (68th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/05/08

HB 1047

Cobb County; office of tax commissioner; certain employees; change compensation Reps. Don Parsons (42nd); Rob Teilhet (40th); Judy Manning (32nd); Rich Golick (34th); Earl Ehrhart (36th) and Sharon Cooper (41st) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/07/08

HB 1048

Cobb County Probate Court; certain employees; change compensation Reps. Don Parsons (42nd); Rob Teilhet (40th); Judy Manning (32nd); Rich Golick (34th); Bobby Franklin (43rd) and Earl Ehrhart (36th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/07/08

HB 1053

Cobb Judicial Circuit; judges; provide supplement Reps. Rich Golick (34th); Rob Teilhet (40th); Steve Tumlin (38th); Judy Manning (32nd); Don Parsons (42nd) and Terry Johnson (37th) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/07/08

HB 1089

Cobb County Probate Court; judge and clerk; change compensation Reps. Terry Johnson (37th); Don Parsons (42nd); Rich Golick (34th); Rob Teilhet (40th); Earl Ehrhart (36th) and Don Wix (33rd) State and Local Governmental Operations Committee 02/07/08

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Administrative Affairs Committee
The Administrative Affairs Committee did not meet this week.
Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee
The Senate Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee held its first meeting of the 2008 Session on Thursday, January 31. First, Chairman John Bulloch of the 11th presented Senate Bill 364, which reclassifies ratite products, or large flightless birds such as ostrich, as poultry rather than livestock. After a few brief comments, SB 364 passed through Committee by a unanimous vote. Representative Bobby Reese of the 98th then presented House Bill 301, which sets forth much stiffer penalties for those found to be participating in dogfighting in Georgia. Under HB 301, those found guilty of owning, possessing or selling any dog for the purpose of dogfighting, causing any dog to fight with another dog for amusement, wagering on the result of a dogfight and several other acts, will be subject to a felony conviction and will be punished by imprisonment of one to five years and a fine of no less than $5000. Rep. Reese also presented a minor amendment to the bill, which adds those who advertise or promote a dogfight to the list of offenders. Sen. Chip Rogers of the 21st spoke in favor of HB 301, although he too has sponsored a bill to strengthen Georgia's dogfighting laws, SB 16. Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tommy Irvin expressed his concerns on the bill, stating that it may interfere with the state's Animal Protection Act. After further discussion, HB 301 passed unanimously by Substitute as amended.
Appropriations Committee
The Appropriations Committee did not meet this week.
Banking and Financial Institutions Committee
On Tuesday, February 5, Chairman Bill Hamrick of the 30th called the meeting to order and reopened discussion of Senate Bill 358. Known as the Georgia Uniform Securities Act of 2008, the bill replaces the Georgia Securities Act of 1973 and will provide forms of registration for securities, regulation of securities professionals, fraud enforcement, as well as uniformity with current federal law. Director Bob Terry of the Division of Securities expressed concerns that the banking and trade industries have with certain provisions of the bill. Chairman Hamrick urged the members to resolve any additional issues they have with the proposed legislation, so that a vote could be held at the next meeting. Chairman Hamrick then introduced a substitute to Senate Bill 361, which is co-sponsored by Senator Chip Rogers of the 21st. Known as the Georgia Credit Protection Act, the bill permits a consumer to place a security freeze on his/her credit report, provides a method for placing and removing a security freeze, prohibits the release of a credit report that is subject to a credit freeze and allows certain fees to be charged in connection with a security freeze. Representatives from the Georgia chapter of the AARP spoke in favor of the recent changes to the bill. SB 361 then passed by Committee Substitute unanimously.
Economic Development Committee
The Economic Development Committee did not meet this week.
Education and Youth Committee
The Education and Youth Committee did not meet this week.
Ethics Committee
The Ethics Committee did not meet this week.
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Finance Committee
Chairman Chip Rogers of the 21st called the Committee to order on Thursday, January 31, to take up Senate Resolution 687. Senator Mitch Seabaugh of the 28th presented the resolution, which creates a Constitutional Amendment to limit property tax increases to the annual rate of inflation unless significant improvements are made to the property. This resolution will also give control to local governments for administering funds appropriately. After Sen. Seabaugh and Sen. Steve Thompson of the 33rd moved to amend the resolution with some minor language changes, the resolution passed through the Committee unanimously by Substitute.
The Committee reconvened on Tuesday, February 5. Senator Cecil Staton of the 18th and Bibb County Tax Commissioner Tommy Tedders explained Senate Bill 159, which extends the deadline for filing homestead exemption applications to mirror the closing of books for tax returns for the calendar year. SB 159 passed unanimously. The Committee then held a hearing on SR 796, which calls for a change in the uniformity requirement as it applies to residential and nonresidential real property. Clint Mueller of the Association County Commissioners of Georgia spoke in favor of the bill, but suggested adding that assessment caps be indexed for inflation. Gwen Hall of the Georgia Municipal Association spoke in favor of the bill, suggesting only a minor change. Alan Essig of the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute mentioned a few likely unintended consequences of the bill, but was generally supportive. Finally, Angela Palm of the Georgia School Boards Association also testified in favor of SR 796, which passed unanimously. Discussion then resumed on SR 686, which proposes an amendment to the Constitution to require the freezing of existing residential real property values and to provide that residential real property and interests must be appraised for ad valorem taxation purposes at their fair market value at the date of acquisition. Chairman Rogers explained the bill's provisions, mentioning that he supports cities and counties being able to hold referendum votes on the issue. Sen. Seabaugh asked the Committee to consider two amendments, both of which made minor languages changes. Both of the amendments passed unanimously. Thereafter, SR 686 passed unanimously as amended.
Government Oversight Committee
On Thursday, January 31, Chairman Ronnie Chance of the 16th called the first meeting of the Government Oversight Committee to order. First, Senator David Shafer of the 48th presented Senate Resolution 722, which creates a Grady Oversight Committee (GOC). This board will periodically review the success of the Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority in accomplishing its legislative purposes. After Sen. Shafer addressed several concerns of other Committee members, SR 722 was passed unanimously. Sen. Shafer then brought forth Senate Bill 353, which coincides with SR 722 in that no member of the GOC may have any financial tie to the hospital or any major vendors to the hospital. SB 353 was unanimously passed by the Committee. Lastly, Sen. Shafer presented SR 748, which urges Grady to consider a change of staff model in order for the hospital to be more self-sustained. SR 748 also passed unanimously.
Health and Human Services Committee
Thursday, January 31, the Committee convened jointly with the House Children and Youth Committee to hold a hearing concerning childhood obesity issues. The Committee heard presentations from Rick Lewis of the College of Family and Consumer Sciences at the University of Georgia and Rodney Lyn of the Institute of Public Health at Georgia State University. Also, Surgeon General Joe Thompson of Arkansas testified on certain goals and initiatives that are being implemented to combat childhood obesity in the state of Arkansas.
Higher Education Committee
The Higher Education Committee did not meet this week.
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Insurance and Labor Committee
On Wednesday, February 6, Chairman Ralph Hudgens of the 47th called the Committee to order. Chairman Hudgens announced that Senate Bill 348 was placed back in the Committee in order to meet with affected interested parties. The Committee first took up SB 304, sponsored by Senator Doug Stoner of the 6th, which seeks to require individuals who file an application for health benefits under any state-funded health program to identify his or her employer. Mark Trail, director of Medicaid services for the Department of Community Health (DCH), asked that more time be given to examine the bill and address its issues. Chairman Hudgens created a subcommittee, made up of Senators Stoner, Chip Rogers of the 21st and Tim Golden of the 8th, to further review SB 304. Chairman Hudgens then introduced SB 403, sponsored by Sen. Henson of the 41st, which would require employers to pay former employees their final check on or before the next regular payday. Roy Bowen, president of Georgia Traditional Manufacturers Association, asked the Committee to hold SB 403 for further review. Chairman Hudgens said the Committee will take up SB 403 at the next Committee meeting.
Interstate Cooperation Committee
The Interstate Cooperation Committee did not meet this week.
Judiciary Committee
On Thursday, January 31, Chairman Preston Smith of the 52nd called the first meeting of the Judiciary Committee to order. The Committee first took up Senate Bill 216, presented by Senator Ronnie Chance of the 16th, which prohibits those under federal indictment from serving on a grand jury. District Attorney Tommy Floyd of the Flint County Judicial Circuit spoke in support of the bill and proposed an amendment that would include those who are accused of a crime, not just indicted. Chairman Smith recommended the amendment be proposed on the Senate floor. SB 216 passed unanimously. Sen. John Douglas of the 17th then presented SB 21, which increases the penalty for murdering certain law enforcement personnel to life without parole. Several witnesses opposed the bill on grounds that it takes discretion away from judges, including Judge Arch McGarity, president of the Council of Superior Court Judges, and Jack Martin of the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Among those who testified for the bill were representatives of the Georgia Sheriffs' Association, Georgia Association of Emergency Medical Services and Executive Director Frank Rotondo of the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police. After some discussion by the Committee, the bill failed by a vote of 4 to 5, with Senators Joseph Carter of the 13th, Vincent Fort of the 39th, Seth Harp of the 29th, Michael Meyer von Bremen of the 12th and Kasim Reed of the 35th in dissent. The Committee then considered SB 355, authored by Chairman Smith, which defines the types of negotiable instruments that a settlement agent must receive prior to making a disbursement. Representatives of the Georgia Realtors Association and the State Bar of Georgia testified in support of the bill. Other witnesses raised concerns regarding the lack of flexibility in wiring funds, including Scott Logan of the Georgia Real Estate Closing Attorneys Association and Mo Thrash of the Mortgage Bankers Association of Georgia. The bill passed unanimously by Committee Substitute.
Natural Resources and the Environment Committee
Chairman Ross Tolleson of the 20th called the meeting to order on Wednesday, February 6, to take up four bills. First, Chairman Tolleson reviewed Senate Bill 367, which removes the automatic repeal provision of the Georgia Coastal Management Act. The bill was approved by a unanimous vote. Sen. Bill Heath of the 31st then presented SB 382, which expands the short-term hunting license for residents from one to three days. SB 382 also passed unanimously. Sen. Bill Cowsert of the 46th then presented SB 351, which creates a Statewide Water Planning Oversight Committee. The bill provides the make up of the Oversight Committee and allows certain powers to override environment rules of the Environmental Protection Division (EPD). The bill also passed through Committee by a unanimous vote. Lastly, Sen. Chip Rogers of the 21st presented SB 368, which addresses the permit restrictions of surface water. This bill ensures that the EPD director cannot restrict the use or maintenance of public, private or community swimming pools. After some deliberation, Chairman Tolleson made a motion to table SB 368 for further consideration.
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Public Safety Committee
On Thursday, January 31, Senator Jeff Mullis of the 53rd called the meeting to order to consider Senate Bills 315 and 356. Sen. Preston Smith of the 52nd presented SB 315, which extends the current authorization of a five percent court fee on all traffic violations to be paid into any pension, annuity or retirement funds until June 30, 2013. SB 315 passed unanimously by Committee Substitute. Sen. Steve Henson of the 41st presented SB 356, which requires that money raised from the issuance of traffic violations by any college or university campus police department's motorcycle enforcement unit be used for the maintenance and enhancement of its motorcycle enforcement program. Oliver Hunter of the Georgia Sheriff's Association was in attendance to speak in opposition of the bill. SB 356 passed by a vote of 6 to 1, with Sen. Johnny Grant of the 25th in dissent.
Reapportionment and Redistricting Committee
The Reapportionment and Redistricting Committee did not meet this week.
Regulated Industries and Utilities Committee
On Wednesday, February 6, Chairman David Shafer of the 48th called the meeting to order. Senator Don Balfour of the 9th explained Senate Bill 384, which limits limousine carrier fees for permitting by stating that such fees cannot exceed the airport's cost of permitting and regulating limousine carriers. Les Snyder, representative of the Georgia Limousine Association, testified in favor of the bill's. SB 384 passed 8 to 1, with Sen. Thomas in dissent. Chairman Shafer then opened discussion on SB 385, which provides for the licensing of limousine carriers to sell alcoholic beverages for consumption only in the vehicle supplied by the limousine carrier. A permit is issued in accordance with this legislation. Sen. Balfour explained the bill's provisions further. SB 385 passed unanimously.
Retirement Committee
The Retirement Committee did not meet this week.
Rules Committee
The Rules Committee did not meet as a standing committee this week.
Science and Technology Committee
The Science and Technology Committee did not meet this week.
Special Judiciary Committee
The Committee met on Tuesday, February 5, to consider Senate Bill 217. Senator Curt Thompson of the 5th presented his substitute, which more clearly defines the characteristics of a "voluntary homeowners' association group", giving such an entity the legal standing to bring forth legal action to enforce covenants. Ron Jayson of the Georgia Real Estate Investors Association emphasized the importance of adding a further notice provision. After some discussion and questioning, Chairman Michael Meyer von Bremen of the 12th stated SB 217 would be taken up at the next Committee meeting.
State Institutions and Property Committee
The State Institutions and Property Committee did not meet this week.
State and Local Governmental Operations Committee
The State and Local Governmental Operations Committee did not meet this week.
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Transportation Committee
Chairman Jeff Mullis of the 53rd called the Committee to order on Wednesday, February 6, to hear three pieces of legislation. The Committee first heard a brief presentation from Director of Ports, Airports & Coasts Oriol Balaguer of Catalonia, Spain. Director Balaguer discussed some of the transportation issues he is facing in Barcelona, Spain, and how those issues are similar to Atlanta's transportation problems. Senator Doug Stoner of the 6th then introduced Senate Bill 371, which would require that local school districts conduct a survey of all existing school bus routes to determine which bus routes cross railroad crossings that do not have active warning devices. The school districts would then submit a list of these dangerous crossings to the Georgia Department of Transportation (DOT). Sen. John Douglas of the 17th moved to amend the bill to provide for a July 1, 2008, start date. After brief discussion, SB 371 passed by substitute as amended by a unanimous vote. Sen. Chip Pearson of the 51st presented Senate Resolution 750, which urges the U.S. DOT to make the funds collected under the federal motor fuel tax immediately available to individual states to fund their transportation needs and to cease collection of state motor fuel taxes in Georgia. SR 750 was adopted unanimously. Chairman Mullis then presented SR 781, which urges the state DOT to develop a statewide strategic transportation plan. The legislation also asks the DOT to report its progress on the statewide plan to the General Assembly by December 31, 2008. SR 781 passed by a unanimous vote.
Urban Affairs Committee
The Urban Affairs Committee did not meet this week.
Veterans, Military and Homeland Security Committee
Chairman John Douglas of the 17th called the meeting to order on Tuesday, February 5. The Committee heard a presentation from Charley English, director of the Georgia Emergency Management Agency, concerning current Homeland Security issues.
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