Daily report [Mar. 21, 2012]

HOUSE BUDGET & RESEARCH OFFICE (404) 656-5050 HOUSE COMMUNICATIONS (404) 656-0305

TOMORROW'S FORECAST
* The House will reconvene for its 37th Legislative Day on Thursday, March 22, at 10:00 AM. * 7 bills are expected to be debated on the floor.

GEORGIA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
DAILY REPORT

Wednesday, March 21, 2012
TODAY ON THE FLOOR

36th Legislative Day

MOTIONS TO AGREE
HB 1118 - Trion, Town of; provide new charter
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to provide a new charter for the Town of Trion. - Authored By: Rep. Barbara Massey Reece of the 11th - House Committee: Intragovernmental Coordination - Local - A motion to agree represents final passage of this bill.
RULES CALENDAR
HR 1367 - Congress; prohibit Environmental Protection Agency from further regulating greenhouse gas emissions without study; urge
- BILL SUMMARY: House Resolution 1367 urges Congress to prohibit the EPA from further regulating greenhouse gas emissions without a comprehensive economic and environmental study. - Authored By: Rep. Harry Geisinger of the 48th - House Committee: Natural Resources & Environment - Rule: Modified-Open - Yeas: 109; Nays: 52
SB 101 - Elections; poll officers; provide for the Student Teen Election Participant program
- BILL SUMMARY: SB 101 creates the "Student Teen Election Participant" (STEP) program. It allows election superintendents to develop and implement through a coordinated effort a Student Teen Election Participant (STEP) program. The STEP program shall permit full-time public, private, and home schooled high school students to volunteer to work as poll officers during any primary, special, or general election. - Authored By: Sen. Jesse Stone of the 23rd - House Committee: Governmental Affairs - Rule: Modified-Structured - Yeas: 160; Nays: 3
SB 110 - Waste Management; restrictions on municipal solid waste landfill sites within significant ground-water recharge areas; provisions
- BILL SUMMARY: This bill delays the implementation of EPD rules and regulations regarding septic tanks from July 1, 2012 to July 1, 2014 in order to allow small businesses to prepare for the changes. The bill also states that any public water system within Georgia supplying water to customers who utilize a waste-water sewer system owned by a local government or authority must furnish the government or authority with the amount of water consumed by each individually metered customer account during each billing period. The water supplier shall cut off the water if the customer fails to pay withing five business days, and the water supplier is authorized to charge a resumption and suspension fee. - Authored By: Sen. Jack Murphy of the 27th - House Committee: Natural Resources & Environment - Rule: Modified-Structured - Yeas: 166; Nays: 0

SB 346 - State Board of Pharmacy; prescription drugs by mail/other common carriers; provisions
- BILL SUMMARY: This bill defines "remote order entry" as the entry made by a pharmacist located within the State of Georgia from a remote location. This will indicate that the pharmacist has reviewed the order, approved or disapproved the administration of the drug, and has entered the information into the hospital patient's record system.
Remote order entry is allowed if: 1.The pharmacist is not physically present in the hospital, the hospital pharmacy is closed, and a pharmacist will be physically present in the hospital pharmacy within 16 hours. 2.At least one pharmacist is physically present in the hospital pharmacy and at least one other pharmacist is practicing pharmacy in the hospital, but not in physically present in the hospital pharmacy.
Requires the director of pharmacy of the hospital to submit written policies and procedures for the use of remote order entry to the board.
Allows the board to issue a cease and desist order if they conclude that the hospital's use of remote order entry does not comply with law. - Authored By: Sen. Don Balfour of the 9th - House Committee: Health & Human Services - Rule: Structured - Yeas: 166; Nays: 0
SB 370 - Controlled Substances; Schedule I and V controlled substance; "dangerous drug"; provisions
- BILL SUMMARY: SB 370 is the annual drug update bill by the Board of Pharmacy moving new and existing drugs into different classes.
The committee substitute adds a new Section 1 dedicating the bill to Chase Burnett who died from using synthetic marijuana. - Authored By: Sen. Earl "Buddy" Carter of the 1st - House Committee: Judiciary Non-Civil - Rule: Structured - Yeas: 166; Nays: 0
SB 430 - State Senate Districts; revise certain boundaries
- BILL SUMMARY: This legislation proposes amendments to the Senate districts that were adopted in the 2011 Special Session. - Authored By: Sen. Charlie Bethel of the 54th - House Committee: Legislative & Congressional Reapportionment - Rule: Structured - Yeas: 108; Nays: 48
LOCAL CALENDAR
HB 398 - Fulton County; Board of Education pensions and retirement; correct typographical errors
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to amend the act providing a retirement system for the Fulton County Board of Education to correct typographical errors and to comply with the Federal Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 and the federal Heroes Earnings Assistance and Relief Tax Act of 2008. - Authored By: Rep. Virgil Fludd of the 66th - House Committee: Intragovernmental Coordination - Local - Rule: Modified-Open - Yeas: 144; Nays: 3
HB 1256 - Western Area Regional Radio System Authority; remove City of Douglasville and add Coweta County as a member
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to remove the City of Douglasville from and add Coweta County to the membership of the Western Area Regional Radio System Authority. - Authored By: Rep. Bill Hembree of the 67th - House Committee: Intragovernmental Coordination - Local - Rule: Open - Yeas: 144; Nays: 3

HB 1272 - Bacon County; Board of Commissioners; membership of chairperson and commissioners on boards and authorities; limit
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to provide for terms of office, elections, compensation, duties, and powers of the Bacon County Board of Commissioners. - Authored By: Rep. Tommy Smith of the 168th - House Committee: Intragovernmental Coordination - Local - Rule: Open - Yeas: 144; Nays: 3
HB 1276 - Richmond Hill, City of; provide new charter
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to provide a new charter for the City of Richmond Hill. - Authored By: Rep. Ron Stephens of the 164th - House Committee: Intragovernmental Coordination - Local - Rule: Open - Yeas: 144; Nays: 3
HB 1277 - Washington, City of; change description of council districts
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to reapportion the City Council of the City of Washington. - Authored By: Rep. Mickey Channell of the 116th - House Committee: Intragovernmental Coordination - Local - Rule: Open - Yeas: 144; Nays: 3
HB 1278 - Spalding County Magistrate Court; charge technology fee for each civil case filed and criminal fine imposed; authorize
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to authorize the Magistrate Court of Spalding County to charge a technology fee, not to exceed $5, for each civil case filed and criminal fine imposed. - Authored By: Rep. David Knight of the 126th - House Committee: Intragovernmental Coordination - Local - Rule: Open - Yeas: 144; Nays: 3
HB 1279 - Spalding County Probate Court; charge technology fee for each civil case filed; authorize
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to authorize the Probate Court of Spalding County to charge a technology fee, not to exceed $5, for each civil case filed. - Authored By: Rep. David Knight of the 126th - House Committee: Intragovernmental Coordination - Local - Rule: Open - Yeas: 144; Nays: 3
HB 1280 - Spalding County State Court; charge technology fee for each civil case filed and each criminal fine imposed; authorize
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to authorize the State Court of Spalding County to charge a technology fee, not to exceed $5, for each civil case filed and each criminal fine imposed. - Authored By: Rep. David Knight of the 126th - House Committee: Intragovernmental Coordination - Local - Rule: Open - Yeas: 144; Nays: 3
HB 1288 - Hart County Water and Sewer Authority; enact
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to re-create the Hart County Water and Sewer Authority and to provide for its powers and duties. - Authored By: Rep. Alan Powell of the 29th - House Committee: Intragovernmental Coordination - Local - Rule: Open - Yeas: 144; Nays: 3

HB 1289 - DeKalb County; board of education; provide for certain terms of office
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to provide terms of office for the members of the DeKalb County Board of Education. - Authored By: Rep. Howard Mosby of the 90th - House Committee: Intragovernmental Coordination - Local - Rule: Open - Yeas: 144; Nays: 3
SB 515 - Americus, City of; provide for a date of expiration of office for terms of councilmembers and the mayor
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to provide an expiration date for terms of councilmembers and the mayor, to provide for the taking of office of councilmembers and the mayor, to provide for meetings for council business, to provide the oath of office, to provide for a quorum and to provide for presiding officers at meetings in the City of Americus. - Authored By: Sen. George Hooks of the 14th - House Committee: Intragovernmental Coordination - Local - Rule: Open - Yeas: 144; Nays: 3
SB 520 - Troup County; create board of elections and registration; powers and duties
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to create the Troup County Board of Elections and Registration and to provide for its powers and duties. - Authored By: Sen. Joshua McKoon of the 29th - House Committee: Intragovernmental Coordination - Local - Rule: Open - Yeas: 144; Nays: 3
* The House will reconvene Thursday, March 22, at 10:00 AM, for its 37th Legislative Day.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
COMMITTEE ON RULES
The Committee on Rules has fixed the calendar for the 37th Legislative Day, Thursday, March 22, and bills may be called at the pleasure of the Speaker.
NEXT ON THE FLOOR
SB 227 - Education; declarations of intent/attendance records for home study programs; submitted to Dept. of Education rather than local school superintendents
- BILL SUMMARY: Senate Bill 227 requests that Georgia enter into an "Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children" with other states to remove barriers to educational success that are imposed on children of military families because of frequent moves and deployment of their parents. The goal of the interstate compact is to harmonize the widely varying policies that affect transitioning military students with a comprehensive multi-state approach that provides a consistent transition procedure in every school district and in every state that chooses to join. - Authored By: Sen. Barry Loudermilk of the 52nd - House Committee: Education - House Committee Passed: 3/19/2012 - Rule: Modified-Open
SB 351 - Municipal Courts; require same training for all judges of courts exercising municipal court jurisdiction
- BILL SUMMARY: SB 351 requires judges of all courts exercising municipal court jurisdiction to undergo and complete annual training. - Authored By: Sen. John Crosby of the 13th - House Committee: Judiciary - House Committee Passed: 3/15/2012 - Rule: Modified-Open

SB 352 - Prosecuting Attorneys; provide; probate courts, municipal courts, and courts exercising municipal court jurisdiction; process of such employment
- BILL SUMMARY: As it passed the Senate, SB 352 authorizes cities to employ prosecuting attorneys in municipal courts and courts exercising municipal court jurisdiction.
The House committee substitute adds some additional provisions regarding prosecuting attorneys in municipal courts. It establishes procedure for establishing an office of prosecuting attorney; requirements to be appointed a prosecuting attorney; duties, authority and compensation of the attorney; provisions for additional assistant prosecuting attorneys; and procedure in the event of a solicitor general's death.
In addition, the House substitute adds Section 5 which grants municipal courts jurisdiction over cases of persons charged with transactions in drug related objects if the offense occurred within the corporate limits of the municipality. - Authored By: Sen. John Crosby of the 13th - House Committee: Judiciary Non-Civil - House Committee Passed: 3/14/2012 - Rule: Modified-Open
SB 362 - Submerged Cultural Resources; permits; authorization to contract for investigation, survey; change certain provisions
- BILL SUMMARY: This bill includes provisions for the sale and removal of "deadhead logs." Such logs are defined as those which were commerically harvested from forests in Georgia during the 19th or 20th centuries, that sank or were sunk in navigable portions of the Altamaha, Flint, Ocmulgee or Oconee Rivers (other than any portions of those streams which form Georgia's border with another state), either while in the process of being floated to mill or market or intentionally for storage. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) may contract with anyone for the investigation or survey of deadhead logs on a competitive bid basis to the highest responsible bidders. No merchantable qunatity of deadhead logs may be withheld from marketing as a deadhead logs sales area to the bidding public unless DNR determines that the public interest (such as protection of water quality or wildlife habitat) cannot be adequately protected by the bidder if a recovery and removal operation is allowed. The purchaser of such logs is repsonsible for their recovery and removal. Deadhead logs may not be removed under these provisions until the amount due to the state for payment of such logs has been received, and the state retains title to deadhead logs unless and until those logs are removed in a timely manner in accordance with terms of the sales agreement. Proceeds received by DNR from these sales may be retained by that agency for administration of the deadhead logs or fisheries management programs, though any funds not expended for such purposes in the fiscal year when they are generated are to be deposited into the general fund of the state treasury. - Authored By: Sen. Tommie Williams of the 19th - House Committee: Natural Resources & Environment - House Committee Passed: 3/15/2012 - Rule: Structured
SB 407 - Health; repeal creation of the Health Strategies Council, Clinical Laboratory, Blood Bank, and Tissue Bank Committee
- BILL SUMMARY: This bill dissolves the Health Strategies Council, The Clinical Laboratory, Blood Bank, and Tissue Bank Committee. - Authored By: Sen. Renee S Unterman of the 45th - House Committee: Health & Human Services - House Committee Passed: 3/14/2012 - Rule: Modified-Structured
SB 412 - County Boards of Education; homestead option sales and use tax; county sales and use tax for educational purposes; delay effective date of Code section
- BILL SUMMARY: Senate Bill 412 delays the effective date to January 1st 2015 for Code Section 20-2-52.1. This section is relating to counties that have a homestead option and sales and use tax collection, a county sales and use tax for educational purposes, and a county with a Board of Education with more than seven members will be elected from single member districts of approximately equal population. - Authored By: Sen. Fran Millar of the 40th - House Committee: Education - House Committee Passed: 3/13/2012 - Rule: Modified-Structured

SB 489 - Georgia Trauma Care Network Commission; report annually; House/Senate Committees on Health and Human Services; outcomes
- BILL SUMMARY: Senate Bill 489 requires the Georgia Trauma Care Network Commission to report to the Health and Human Services Committees of the Georgia General Assembly on the state-wide trauma system development and impact of fund distribution on trauma patient care and outcomes. - Authored By: Sen. Jeff Mullis of the 53rd - House Committee: Health & Human Services - House Committee Passed: 3/14/2012 - Rule: Modified-Open
* The Rules Committee will next meet on Thursday, March 22, at 9:00 AM, to set the Rules Calendar for the 38th Legislative Day.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
COMMITTEE ACTION REPORT
Children & Youth
HR 738 - United States Congress; propose Parental Rights Amendment; urge
- BILL SUMMARY: House Resolution 738 urges the members of the United States Congress to take necessary action to propose the Parental Rights Amendment to the United States Constitution for ratification. The Parental Rights Amendment prevents erosion of the American tradition of treating parental rights as fundamental rights by adding to the U.S. Constitution three sections which state that the liberty of parents to direct the upbringing and education of their children is a fundamental right; neither the U.S. nor any state shall infringe upon this right without demonstrating its governmental interest as applied to the person is of the highest order; no treaty or any source of international law may supersede, modify, interpret, or apply to the rights guaranteed by this article. - Authored By: Rep. Jay Neal of the 1st - Committee Action: Do Pass
Governmental Affairs
SB 424 - Foundations of American Law and Government Displays; revise provisions
- BILL SUMMARY: SB 424 expands the law allowing the "Foundations of American Law and Government" display in courthouses. This bill will allow the display in all state and local government buildings. - Authored By: Sen. Bill Heath of the 31st - Committee Action: Do Pass
Governmental Affairs
SB 428 - Administrative Procedure; provide for agency reports regarding federal government mandates and duplicate state/federal regulation
- BILL SUMMARY: SB 428 requires all state agencies to prepare an annual report that specifies, with detail, all federal rules and regulations implemented that year. - Authored By: Sen. Ross Tolleson of the 20th - Committee Action: Do Pass
Governmental Affairs
SB 483 - Public Service Commission; chairperson; change the term/manner of election
- BILL SUMMARY: This bill specifies the term of the PSC Chairperson, and how they are selected. The chair will be chosen by a majority of the membership. The term of office will be for two years. However, any three members may call for a chairperson election at anytime, but no more than twice per calendar year. There is a two term limit. - Authored By: Sen. Jeff Mullis of the 53rd - Committee Action: Do Pass by Committee Substitute

Health & Human Services
SB 380 - Pharmacist and Pharmacies; change definition of security paper; State Board of Pharmacy; revisions
- BILL SUMMARY: SB 380
Section 1 Senate Bill 380 amends the definition of security paper to include Medicare and Medicaid requirements for a tamper-resistant prescription.
Section 2 (A)The board may only deny registration to a nonresident pharmacy or device distributer for good cause related to substantial evidence of misfeasance or malfeasance by an applicant.
These firms will be required to disclose the following information to the board: 1.) Proof of a valid, unexpired license, permit, or registration to operate a pharmacy and device distributer in compliance with the laws and rules of the state in which the facility is located. 2.) The location, names, and titles of all principal corporate officers and the pharmacist who serves as the pharmacist in charge for dispensing all drugs. 3.) Change of registered location and the state and federal registrations for the new location. 4.) Proof that it complies with all lawful directions and requests for information from the regulatory or licensing agency of all states in which it is licensed as well as with all requests for information made by the board. 5.) The location of records for all prescription drug or medical device orders in this state. 6.) A toll-free telephone service to facilitate communication between patients in this state and a pharmacist at the pharmacy or person at the medical device distributer who has access to the patient's records.
(B)Requires the applications for this type of permit to be made on a written or electronic form made available by the board. (C)Allows the board to set the registration and renewal fees. (D)Allows the board to deny, revoke, or suspend registration of, or fine or reprimand a nonresident pharmacy or medical device distributer for failure to comply with rules or law. (E)Allows the board to deny, revoke, or suspend registration of, or fine or reprimand a nonresident pharmacy or medical device distributer for conduct which causes serious bodily injury or serious psychological injury to a resident of this state. (F)Makes it unlawful for these firms to advertise their services if the firm remains unregistered after the effective date set by the board. (G)Requires that the pharmacist in charge of the nonresident pharmacy to be licensed in his or her state of location. (H)Requires the amendment of Code Section 26-4-60 which would enable a person or pharmacy regulated by the board to regularly employ mailing to sell, distribute, or deliver a prescription drug.
Section 3 Allows the Georgia Drugs and Narcotics Agency to accept donations, contributions, grants, or bequests of funds or property for the Prescription Drug Monitoring program. These funds will be reviewed by the Appropriations Committee of the House and Senate.
Section 4 Defines a "valid prescription drug order" as a prescription drug order issued by a physician, dentist, podiatrist, veterinarian, or other person licensed, registered, or otherwise authorized under the law to prescribe dangerous drugs and controlled substances.
Section 5 Strikes the requirements of board approval of security paper before marketing or sale in Georgia. Also strikes the requirement to affix a seal.
Section 6 Defines "dispenser" as any pharmacy or facility which is located outside this state and ships, mails, or delivers a dispensed dangerous drug or controlled substance into this state. - Authored By: Sen. Earl "Buddy" Carter of the 1st - Committee Action: Do Pass by Committee Substitute
Health & Human Services
SB 470 - Patient Self-Referral; revise the definition of "rural area"
- BILL SUMMARY: This bill allows Baldwin county to be a "rural area." The bill states that a county with a military junior college is not an urban area. - Authored By: Sen. Greg Goggans of the 7th - Committee Action: Do Pass

Health & Human Services
SB 506 - State Government; provide state immunity extend to certain health care providers; engaged in graduate medical programs in Ga medical facilities
- BILL SUMMARY: Formerly HB 501. This bill allows physicians in good standing, with a license in another state, to perform volunteer health care services. - Authored By: Sen. Jeff Mullis of the 53rd - Committee Action: Do Pass
Insurance
SB 337 - Insurance; limitations on licensure requirements for certain health care providers
- BILL SUMMARY: The House Insurance Committee Substitute to SB 337 provides for insurers to offer wellness endorsements or riders under certain circumstances. - Authored By: Sen. Greg Goggans of the 7th - Committee Action: Do Pass by Committee Substitute
Intragovernmental Coordination - Local
HB 1275 - Chatham Area Transit Authority; board membership and staggered terms; provide
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to amend the Act which created the Chatham Area Transit Authority so as to provide for board membership and staggered terms, to provide for methods of transacting business, to provide for per diem allowances for board members, to provide for the election of a chairperson, and to provide for audits. - Authored By: Rep. Ron Stephens of the 164th - Committee Action: Do Pass
Intragovernmental Coordination - Local
HB 1281 - Satilla Regional Water and Sewer Authority; members to be elected for unlimited consecutive terms; allow
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to allow the members of the Satilla Regional Water and Sewer Authority to be elected for unlimited consecutive terms, to repeal provisions relating to expansion of services and addition of members, to reduce the number of days of nonpayment beyond which the authority may disconnect service, to raise the maximum fee for reconnection of service, and to exempt the authority from sales and use taxes. - Authored By: Rep. Mark Hatfield of the 177th - Committee Action: Do Pass
Intragovernmental Coordination - Local
HB 1282 - Charlton County; board of commissioners; change provisions relating to number of meetings held
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to provide for the election of the chairman and vice chairman, to provide for the powers of the chairman, and to provide for meetings to be held by the Charlton County Board of Commissioners. - Authored By: Rep. Mark Hatfield of the 177th - Committee Action: Do Pass by Committee Substitute
Intragovernmental Coordination - Local
HB 1283 - Charlton County; nonstaggered four-month vehicle registration period; repeal Act
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to repeal an Act providing for a non-staggered four-month vehicle registration period in Charlton County. - Authored By: Rep. Mark Hatfield of the 177th - Committee Action: Do Pass
Intragovernmental Coordination - Local
HB 1284 - Appling County; Board of Education; change description of districts
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to reapportion the Appling County Board of Education. - Authored By: Rep. Tommy Smith of the 168th - Committee Action: Do Pass

Intragovernmental Coordination - Local
HB 1285 - Appling County; board of commissioners; change description of districts
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to reapportion the Appling County Board of Commissioners. - Authored By: Rep. Tommy Smith of the 168th - Committee Action: Do Pass
Intragovernmental Coordination - Local
HB 1286 - Treutlen County; Board of Commissioners; change description of districts
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to reapportion the Treutlen County Board of Commissioners. - Authored By: Rep. Greg Morris of the 155th - Committee Action: Do Pass
Intragovernmental Coordination - Local
HB 1287 - Treutlen County; Board of Education; change description of districts
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to reapportion the Treutlen County Board of Education. - Authored By: Rep. Greg Morris of the 155th - Committee Action: Do Pass
Intragovernmental Coordination - Local
HB 1291 - Sandy Springs, City of; executive and judicial officials; modify provisions
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to provide a new charter to the City of Sandy Springs. - Authored By: Rep. Joe Wilkinson of the 52nd - Committee Action: Do Pass by Committee Substitute
Intragovernmental Coordination - Local
HB 1293 - Crisp County; Board of Commissioners; change description of districts
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to reapportion the Crisp County Board of Commissioners. - Authored By: Rep. Buddy Harden of the 147th - Committee Action: Do Pass
Intragovernmental Coordination - Local
HB 1294 - Williamson, City of; terms of office of mayor and members of city council; change
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to provide terms of office and elections for the mayor and councilmembers in the City of Williamson. - Authored By: Mr.. Billy Maddox of the 127th - Committee Action: Do Pass
Intragovernmental Coordination - Local
HB 1295 - Stephens County; board of education; change description of districts
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to reapportion the Stephens County Board of Education. - Authored By: Rep. Michael Harden of the 28th - Committee Action: Do Pass
Intragovernmental Coordination - Local
HB 1296 - Toccoa, City of; levy an excise tax
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to authorize the City of Toccoa to levy a hotel/motel tax. - Authored By: Rep. Michael Harden of the 28th - Committee Action: Do Pass

Intragovernmental Coordination - Local
HB 1297 - Jeff Davis County; nonbinding, advisory referendum by electors to ascertain if judge of Probate Court will also serve as chief magistrate judge; provide
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to provide an advisory referendum in Jeff Davis County to determine whether the judge of the Probate Court of Jeff Davis County shall also serve as chief magistrate judge of the Magistrate Court - Authored By: Rep. Chuck Sims of the 169th - Committee Action: Do Pass
Intragovernmental Coordination - Local
HB 1299 - DeKalb County; nonbinding, advisory referendum by electors to ascertain if schools should place or operate a telecommunication tower on school property; provide
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to provide for a nonbinding, advisory referendum in DeKalb County for the purpose of ascertaining whether the local or independent school system in DeKalb County, or charter school, should place or operate a telecommunications tower on any elementary, middle, or high school property. - Authored By: Rep. Karla Drenner of the 86th - Committee Action: Do Pass
Intragovernmental Coordination - Local
HB 1301 - Chatham County Magistrate Court; qualifications for magistrates; provide
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to provide qualifications for magistrate judges in the Magistrate Court of Chatham County. - Authored By: Rep. Ron Stephens of the 164th - Committee Action: Do Pass
Intragovernmental Coordination - Local
SB 518 - DeKalb County; change the description of commissioner districts
- BILL SUMMARY: A Bill to reapportion the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners. - Authored By: Sen. Emanuel Jones of the 10th - Committee Action: Do Pass
Judiciary
SB 31 - Evidence; extend the attorney-client privilege to third persons under certain circumstances
- BILL SUMMARY: SB 31 extends the attorney-client privilege only in the context of a minor accused of a crime or delinquent act to include the parent of the minor. The bill includes a definition of who would constitute a parent. - Authored By: Sen. Jason Carter of the 42nd - Committee Action: Do Pass by Committee Substitute
Judiciary
SB 136 - Property; provide for transfer of control of a condominium association in certain circumstances
- BILL SUMMARY: SB 136 allows the right to control a condominium association to pass to the unit owners prior to the usual expiration of the declarant's right to control the association if the declarant fails to satisfy any of the following: 1) Incorporate the association; 2) Appoint the board of directors and arrange for election of officers; 3) Maintain a list of the board members' name and addresses; 4) Call meetings according to the association's bylaws (at least annually); or 5) Prepare an annual operating budget and provide to owners with the annual assessment.
Any owner may send notice of a declarant's failure to comply. If the declarant fails to cure within 30 days, the owner may file a petition in superior court for an order granting the owners control of the association. - Authored By: Sen. Bill Hamrick of the 30th - Committee Action: Do Pass

Judiciary
SB 234 - Georgia Public Revenue Code; extensively revise provisions; ad valorem tax assessments and appeals from such assessments
- BILL SUMMARY: This bill revises the "Georgia Public Revenue Code" regarding provisions relating to advalorem tax assessments and appeals from such assessments. - Authored By: Sen. Chip Rogers of the 21st - Committee Action: Do Pass by Committee Substitute
Judiciary
SB 257 - Local Government; clarify development authorities are authorized to conduct redevelopment
- BILL SUMMARY: SB 257 clarifies provisions regarding the training of directors or members of development authorities. The bill adds a requirement of advanced training upon reappointment of a director or member. A director or member of a development authority who fails to comply will be ineligible to serve for such development authority. - Authored By: Sen. Steve Gooch of the 51st - Committee Action: Do Pass by Committee Substitute
Judiciary
SB 292 - Social Responsibility and Accountability Act; enact; drug test; temporary assistance for needy families/Medicaid benefits; requirements
- BILL SUMMARY: SB 292 requires drug testing of TANF applicants as a condition of eligibility to receive benefits. - Authored By: Sen. John Albers of the 56th - Committee Action: Do Pass by Committee Substitute
Judiciary
SB 312 - Public Assistance; applicants for food stamps and temporary assistance; require personal growth activities
- BILL SUMMARY: Generally, SB 312 requires food stamp applicants to engage in professional development activities as provided by the Department of Human Services. The bill allows exemptions for certain individuals. - Authored By: Sen. William Ligon, Jr. of the 3rd - Committee Action: Do Pass by Committee Substitute
Motor Vehicles
SB 293 - License Plates; require the nation's motto, "In God We Trust" printed on license plates; county name decal (PF)
- BILL SUMMARY: SB 293 deletes provisions requiring license plates to display a county decal. It requires the nation's motto, "In God We Trust," to be available on a decal for use on license plates. - Authored By: Sen. Bill Heath of the 31st - Committee Action: Do Pass
Motor Vehicles
SB 473 - License Plates; veterans awarded Purple Hearts; include persons still serving in the armed services
- BILL SUMMARY: SB 473 ammends provisions relating to the issuance of license plates to veterans awarded Purple Hearts, so as to include persons still serving in the armed services. - Authored By: Sen. Ed Harbison of the 15th - Committee Action: Do Pass

Regulated Industries
SB 114 - Distilled Spirits; provide for issuance of a manufacturer's/distiller's license to a fruit grower; certain circumstances
- BILL SUMMARY: SB 114 amends Title 3 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to state license requirements and regulations for manufacture, distribution, and package sales.
Section 1 Code section 3-4-24 is amended. It is unlawful for the licensee to sell or dispose of distilled spirits or alcohol: in any municipality, county or unincorporated area of a county in which the sale of distilled spirits or alcohol is prohibited by this chapter and any person not holding a wholesale license issued pursuant to this chapter. A manufacturer's or distiller's license may be issued pursuant to this Code section to a fruit grower for the manufacture of distilled spirits in any county or municipality of Georgia that has approved either the package sales of distilled spirits or the sale of distilled spirits by the drink or both. A manufacturer or distiller issued a license pursuant to the Code section may provide educational and promotional tours.
Section 2 Code section 3-4-24.1 is created and states that the commissioner may issue a license authorizing the manufacture of distilled spirits from agricultural products other than perishable fruits grown in this state. It is unlawful for the licensee to sell or dispose of any distilled spirits or alcohol: in any municipality, county or unincorporated area of a county in which the sale of distilled spirits or alcohol is prohibited; to any person not holding a wholesale license. A manufacturer's or distiller's license may be issued pursuant to this Code section for the manufacture of distilled spirits from agricultural products other than perishable fruits in any county or municipality of Georgia that has approved either the package sales of distilled spirits or the sale of distilled spirits by the drink or both. A manufacturer or distiller issued a license pursuant to the Code section may provide educational and promotional tours. - Authored By: Sen. Johnny Grant of the 25th - Committee Action: Do Pass by Committee Substitute
Regulated Industries
SB 414 - Music Therapists; require licensure by the Secretary of State; establishment of Music Therapy Advisory Group
- BILL SUMMARY: SB 414 amends Title 43 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to professions and businesses, so as to add Chapter 25A to establish the Music Therapy Advisory Group within the office of the Secretary of State and creates licensing requirements for music therapists.
The Music Therapy Advisory Group is created within the office of the Secretary of State. The Secretary shall appoint the five members of the advisory group. Three members shall be practicing music therapists, one member shall be a representative of the American Music Therapy Association or any successor organization, and one member shall be a representative of the Certification Board for Music Therapists or any successor organization. The advisory group shall meet at least once per year or as called by the secretary. Duties of the advisory board include: - Facilitating the development of materials to be used to educate the public concerning music therapist and music therapy. - Acting as a facilitator of state-wide dissemination of information between music therapists and the American Music Therapy Association or any successor organization, the Certification Board for Music Therapists or any successor organization, and the secretary. - Providing analysis of disciplinary actions taken, appeals and denials, or revocation of licenses at least once per year. - Consulting with the Secretary prior to the Secretary setting or changing fees
Applicants for a music therapy license shall submit a completed application accompanied by applicable fees and provide evidence of meeting the following requirements: - Being at least 18 years old. - Holding a bachelor's degree or higher in music therapy, or its equivalent, from an approved program. -Completing a minimum of 1,200 hours of clinical training including at least 180 hours in preinternship experiences and at least 900 hours in an approved internship. - Having passed the examination for board certification and being a current board certified music therapist as recognized by Certification Board for Music Therapists. - Having satisfactorily passed a fingerprint record check report and a criminal background check.
The examination requirement shall be waived until January 1, 2014 for an applicant who is certified as a music therapist by the Certification Board for Music Therapists or designated as a music therapist with the National Music Therapy Registry.
Licenses shall be renewed biennially. In order for a license to be renewed, applicants are required to maintain their Certification Board for Music Therapists credentials and complete a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education in an approved program. Failure to renew a license shall result in forfeiture of the license. Active licenses may be placed on inactive status for up to two years.

The Secretary may revoke, suspend, deny, or refuse to issue or renew a license; place a licensee on probation; or issue a letter of admonition upon proof that the licensee: - Has procured or attempted to procure a license by fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation. - Has been convicted of a felony under state law. - Has willfully or negligently acted in a manner inconsistent with the health or safety of persons under their care. - Has had a license to practice music therapy suspended or revoked or has been subject to disciplinary actions regarding their practice of music therapy. - Has committed a fraudulent insurance act. - Excessively or habitually uses alcohol or drugs and is not enrolled in an approved substance abuse program. - Has a physical or mental disability that renders the individual incapable of safely administering music therapy. The secretary is authorized to investigate allegations of misconduct and shall fine a person found in violation not less than $100 nor more than $1,000 for each violation.
After January 1, 2014, no person without a music therapist license shall use the title `music therapist' or similar title, or perform the duties of a music therapist. Nothing in this Code section shall be construed as preventing or restricting the practice, services, or activities of any profession that may also use music therapy in the scope of their practice. - Authored By: Sen. Renee S Unterman of the 45th - Committee Action: Do Pass by Committee Substitute
Transportation
SB 373 - Counties; provide authority; operate vehicle for hire equipped to transport passengers in wheelchair throughout the state
- BILL SUMMARY: This legislation would allow taxi drivers who have the ability to provide service to passengers in wheel chairs to pick up a return fare in the event that the original passenger is taken to a county outside of the jurisdiction of the taxi's regulating authority. - Authored By: Sen. Jeff Mullis of the 53rd - Committee Action: Do Pass by Committee Substitute
Transportation
SR 843 - Bert Ward Memorial Bridge; Catoosa County; dedicate
- BILL SUMMARY: This is the annual Senate resolution package of various road facility dedications.
This package includes: Senate Resolutions 667, 1060, 1071, 1072, 1083, 1084, and House Resolution 1103.
There will be additional House Resolutions added to this bill in committee. Those tacked on will be:
HR 1239 Rep. Judy Manning This resolution designates the official Gone With The Wind Trail throughout the cities of Marietta, Atlanta, and Jonesboro.
HR 1465 Rep. Michael Hardin This resolution dedicates the intersection of Highway 441 and Apple Pie Ridge Road in Banks County as the Tommie Irvin Memorial Intersection.
HR 1612 Rep. Chuck Sims This resolution dedicates US 441 in Coffee County from the Douglas city limits to the Atkinson County line as the John S. Gibson Memorial Highway.
HR 1642 Rep. Tommy Benton A resolution dedicating State Route 98 from Commerce to Ila as the "Highway 98" by Ricky Fitzpatrick Highway.

HR 1643 Rep. Wayne Howard A resolution dedicating the portion of State Route 4 in Richmond County from Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive Boulevard to Walton Way as the Ruth B. Crawford Highway.
HR 1674 Rep. Quincy Murphy A resolution dedicating the interchange of U.S. Route 78/State Route 10 with Interstate Route 520 in Augusta-Richmond County as the Deputy James D. Paugh Memorial Interchange.
HR 1676 Rep. Calvin Smyre A resolution dedicating the interchange of Interstate 185/State Route 411 with State Route 520/State Route 1 in Muscogee County as the John Flournoy Interchange.
HR 1730 Rep. Mickey Channell A resolution dedicating the bridge on SR 12/US 278 over Richland Creek in Greene County as the John B. Box Memorial Bridge.
HR 1732 Rep. Katie Dempsey A resolution dedicating the bypass in Floyd County from Highway 27 south to Blacks Bluff Road as the Chief Vann Bypass.
HR 1733 Rep. Kevin Cooke A resolution dedicating United States Highway 27 in Haralson County from the Polk County line to the Carroll County line as the Harold Shedd Highway.
HR 1734 Rep. Tom Dickson This resolution does the following: (1) Dedicates the portion of SR 2/US 411 in Murray County between the Eton city line and Cohutta Springs Road as the Charles N. "Judy" Poag Memorial Highway; (2) Authorizes and directs the Department of Transportation to erect and maintain appropriate signs dedicating the Charles N. "Judy" Poag Memorial Highway; (3) Repeals Part XVI and the sixteenth undesignated paragraph of Part XIX of Senate Resolution 1075 (Ga. L. 2010, p. 362).
HR 1808 Rep. Matt Hatchett A resolution dedicating the portion of U.S. Route 441/State Route 117 in Laurens County from State Route 19 to U.S. Route 80 as the Kelso Horne Memorial Highway.
HR 1825 Rep. Ann Purcell This resolution does the following: (1) Dedicates the bridge on SR 25 over the Norfolk Southern railroad tracks in the city limits of Port Wentworth in Chatham County as the Hugh Carroll Butler Memorial Bridge; (2) Repeals Part V and the fifth undesignated paragraph of Part XXVIII of House Resolution 507 (Ga. L. 2011, p. 900).
HR 1826 Rep. Richard Smith A resolution dedicating the interchange at Interstate 85 and J.R. Allen Parkway in Muscogee County as the Jim Wetherington Interchange.
HR 1827 Rep. Paulette Braddock A resolution dedicating Highway 92N in Paulding County from its intersection with U.S. 278 to GA 120 as the Mrs. Glenda and Dr. John Covington Highway.

HR 1849 Jason Shaw A resolution dedicating the bridge over the Alapaha River on U.S. Highway 82 East in Berrien County as the Sergeant Major James E. Jones Memorial Bridge. - Authored By: Sen. Jeff Mullis of the 53rd - Committee Action: Do Pass by Committee Substitute
* Bills passing committees are reported to the Clerk's Office, and are then placed on the General Calendar.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULE

TBD 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Thursday, March 22, 2012 Floor Session PUBLIC SAFETY & HOMELAND SECURITY RULES JUDICIARY NON-CIVIL EDUCATION WAYS & MEANS

HOUSE CHAMBER (10:00am) 506 CLOB 341 CAP 132 CAP 403 CAP 606 CLOB

* This meeting schedule is up to date at the time of this report, but meeting dates and times are subject to change. To keep up with the latest schedule please visit www.house.ga.gov and click on Meetings Calendar.

____________________________________________________________________________