Georgia House of Representatives

DAILY REPORT 39th Legislative Day

Tuesday, March 22, 2016

House Budget & Research Office (404) 656-5050

House Media Services (404) 656-0305

The House will reconvene for its 40th Legislative Day on Thursday, March 24 at 10:00 a.m. No bills / resolutions are expected to be debated on the floor.

Today on the Floor

Conference Committee Reports
HB 751 General appropriations; State Fiscal Year July 1, 2016 - June 30, 2017
Bill Summary: House Bill 751, the Fiscal Year 2017 budget, is set by a revenue estimate of $23.7 billion - an increase of $673.9 million, or 2.9%, over the Amended FY 2016 budget.

The bill and budget highlights may be found on the House Budget and Research Office website: http://www.house.ga.gov/budget/

Authored By: Rep. David Ralston (7th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Open

Conference Committee Reports: (Adoption of the conference committee report represents final passage of the bill.)

Motions to Agree
HB 65 Education; local boards of education and certain charter schools to hold at least two public meetings on the proposed annual operating budget; require
Bill Summary: House Bill 65 requires local school boards and charter schools to hold at least two public meetings prior to adopting any budget, so that the public can provide input on the proposed annual budget. The public meetings must be advertised in a local newspaper, and a summary of the proposed budget must be posted on the local board's website. The governing body must also provide to any person requesting an electronic copy of the line item budget at no cost and within three days of such request.

Authored By: Rep. Michael Caldwell (20th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Open

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

HB 100

Education; date by which a child must reach a certain age in order to be eligible for enrollment in certain educational programs; change provisions
Bill Summary: House Bill 100 requires local school systems that provide virtual instruction to students, with more than five percent of those students being out-of-system students, to spend 90 percent of funds earned for those students on costs for their virtual instruction. This legislation also requires the local school system to count such out of system student in the system's College and Career Ready Performance Index data. Section 3 of this bill states local school systems shall not provide virtual instruction to out-of-system students if the system's College and Career Ready Performance Index for the most recent available academic year is below the state average. Section 3 stands repealed on June 30, 2019.

Authored By: Rep. Tom Dickson (6th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Open

Motions to Agree as Amended: (A motion to agree as amended by the House sends this bill back to the Senate for consideration.)

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Today on the Floor

HB 172

Watercraft; operation while under the influence of alcohol, toxic vapors, or drugs; revise types of vessels
Bill Summary: House Bill 172 amends Code where "personal watercraft" is defined. New definitions are "homemade or inflatable raft", "personal watercraft", and "vessel". A homemade or inflatable raft is any platform which floats for giving buoyancy to a person and renders transportation with only the aid of the person's hands, arms, legs, or feet. Personal watercraft has the same meaning set forth in Code Section 52-7-8.2. A vessel is defined as every description of watercraft, other than a sailboard or homemade or inflatable raft, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water. These new definitions remove homemade or inflatable rafts from watercraft subject to boating under the influence provisions. Additionally, the legislation provides that these rafts are not subject to the provisions in Code requiring life saving devices on vessels as long as they are operated no more than one hundred feet from shore on a lake, pond, or other non-flowing body of water.

Authored By: Rep. Eddie Lumsden (12th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Open

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

HB 219

Health; swimming pools; exempt certain privately owned pools from inspection and licensing requirements
Bill Summary: HB 219 exempts private swimming pools, to include pools in apartment complexes, country clubs, subdivisions, condominium associations, town homes, and time shares, from health inspections by the Department of Public Health; however, a resident, member, or the owner of the private swimming pool may request an inspection of the pool at any time for informational purposes only.

Authored By: Rep. J. B. Jones (167th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Open

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

HB 229

Domestic relations; grandparent rights to visitation and intervention to great-grandparents and siblings of parents; expand
Bill Summary: HB 229 expands the grandparent's visitation statute to include great-grandparents, aunts and uncles. A great-grandparent, aunt or uncle may seek visitation rights when a child custody case has gone before a court or in cases where the parents are no longer living together. In order to be eligible for visitation rights, a great-grandparent, aunt or uncle must prove that that they have a relationship with such child through clear and convincing evidence, that the health and welfare of a child will be harmed without such visitation, and that the visitation is in the best interest of the child.

Authored By: Rep. Brian Strickland (111th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Structured

Motions to Agree as Amended: (A motion to agree as amended by the House sends this bill back to the Senate for consideration.)

HB 513

Pleadings and motions; procedure for claims asserted against a person or entity arising from an act which could be construed as an act in furtherance of the right of free speech or right to petition government for redress of grievances; revise provisions
Bill Summary: HB 513 updates Georgia's anti-slapp legislation to increase the coverage from protecting the right to petition to also include the right of free speech in connection with an issue of public interest or concern. When a claim for relief is asserted against another party involving such situations, the action shall be subject to a motion to strike, unless the court determines that the nonmoving party has established that such persons will prevail on the claim. The court shall consider the pleadings, and supporting and opposing affidavits stating the facts upon which the liability or defense is based. The result of the motion shall not be admissible into evidence at any later stage of the case. Moreover, if the moving party prevails, that party shall be granted the recovery of attorney's fees and costs associated with the motion. If the court finds the motion to strike is frivolous, or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay, then the court will award attorney's fees and costs to the non-moving party. In addition, if there is a claim that the non-moving party is a public figure plaintiff, then the non-moving party is entitled to discovery on the sole issue of malice. An order granting or denying a motion to strike shall be appealable without the entry of an order by the trial judge.

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Today on the Floor

Authored By: Rep. Ron Stephens (164th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Open

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

HB 579

Motor vehicles; operation of certain vehicles upon highways when used in connection with agricultural pursuits; provide
Bill Summary: The legislation creates a new Code section for uniform rules of the road. It defines "farmer" as the owner, employee or family member of the owner of a commercial agricultural or silvicultural venture or an employee. It allows a "farm use vehicle," defined as an all-terrain or personal transportation vehicle. A farmer who is 16 years of age or older may operate a farm use vehicle on any public road or highway in Georgia, so long as the slow moving vehicle emblem, conforming to Code Section 40-8-4, is affixed to the vehicle and the vehicle is actively operated by the farmer to transport agricultural products, livestock, farm machinery, or farm supplies from the farm; or the farmer is between his residence and the farm or farm's properties. Every person operating a farm vehicle shall be granted all rights and shall be subject to all of the duties applicable to the driver of any other motor vehicle under this chapter. The legislation also provides that any municipality may prohibit the operation of a farm vehicle on public roads and highways within its jurisdiction if it endangers the safety of the traveling public.

Authored By: Rep. Tom McCall (33rd)

Rule Applied: Modified-Structured

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

HB 649

Georgia Lactation Consultant Practice Act; enact
Bill Summary: HB 649, the 'Georgia Lactation Consultant Practice Act,' creates a Lactation Consultant Advisory Group consisting of five members. The Secretary of State will consult with the advisory group and call meetings to order at least once a year. The advisory group will disseminate information and act as a facilitator between lactation consultants, the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners, and the Secretary of State.

Additionally, the Secretary will have the power to grant a license to applicants. Each applicant for a license must receive certification as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners. Additionally, to receive licensure, the applicant must be at least 18 years old and pass a criminal background check.

Authored By: Rep. Sharon Cooper (43rd)

Rule Applied: Modified-Open

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

HB 676

Accountability, Change Management, and Process Improvement Act of 2015; enact
Bill Summary: House Bill 676 is the 'Accountability, Change Management, and Process Improvement Act of 2015.' It provides that all state agencies, boards, authorities, and commissions shall provide a written business case for every information technology project that exceeds $1 million in value. It provides what information shall be included in the business case.

Further, it provides that all state agencies, boards, authorities, and commissions shall provide for a change management plan and resources necessary for plan execution for projects that exceed $1 million in value, projects that directly involve two or more state agencies, or service delivery changes in existing programs that significantly impact more than 10,000 citizens in Georgia.

Authored By: Rep. Buzz Brockway (102nd)

Rule Applied: Open

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

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Daily Report for March 22, 2016

Today on the Floor

HB 691

Municipal courts; removal of appointed judges under certain circumstances; provide
Bill Summary: House Bill 691 provides for the removal of an appointed municipal court judge for certain unethical conduct by a two-thirds vote of the entire membership of the municipal governing authority. The bill has provisions to temporarily fill a resulting vacancy until a new appointment is made.

Authored By: Rep. Kevin Tanner (9th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Structured

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

HB 697

Unsolicited merchandise; solicitors to receive from consumers affirmative assent to continued receipt of certain merchandise following a free trial before charging; require
Bill Summary: HB 697 revises Code Section 10-1-50 and provides that no "person" shall offer for sale goods, wares or merchandise where the offer includes voluntary and unsolicited sending of goods, wares or merchandise not actually ordered or requested by the recipient. The receipt of such goods is deemed an unconditional gift to the recipient who may use or dispose of the items without any obligation to the sender unless the items were delivered as result of a bona fide mistake.

No person shall require payment for the continued provision of any goods, wares, or merchandise following the expiration of a trial period during which the items were provided free of charge unless the recipient of those goods assents to the receipt on a paid basis. In the absence of such assent, the receipt of the merchandise is deemed an unconditional gift to the recipient who may use or dispose of the items, unless the items were delivered as a bona fide mistake, without obligation to the sender.

Any violation of this Code section shall be considered a violation of of the 'Fair Business Practices Act of 1975.'

Authored By: Rep. Tom Kirby (114th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Open

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

HB 727

Fireworks; certain further regulations by counties and municipal corporations; provide
Bill Summary: HB 727 regulates where and when fireworks can be exploded. It is unlawful to explode fireworks within five yards of an overhead obstruction, across or into a public road. Fireworks may not be used in close proximity to electric plants, wastewater treatment plants, jails, prisons, hospitals, and nursing homes. It is unlawful to explode fireworks at public gatherings where the local fire department, or the state fire marshal determine that such conduct would be unreasonable. Also, it is unlawful, and punished as a misdemeanor, to explode fireworks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The governor or the director of the Environmental Protection Division may issue a declaration to prohibit the use of fireworks for a specific duration. The bill extends the times which fireworks may be exploded on January 1, July 3, July 4, and December 31. Moreover, the bill allows for local noise ordinances to govern when fireworks are otherwise permitted to be exploded.

Authored By: Rep. Paul Battles (15th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Structured

Motions to Agree as Amended: (A motion to agree as amended by the House sends this bill back to the Senate for consideration.)

HB 767

Motor vehicles; add utility service vehicles to the "Spencer Pass Law"; provisions
Bill Summary: House Bill 767 adds utility service vehicles to the "Spencer Pass Law," which states that a driver must make a lane change into a lane not adjacent to a stationary towing, recovery, or highway maintenance, or utility service vehicle. If a lane change would be impossible or unsafe, the driver must reduce the speed of the motor vehicle to a reasonable speed less than the posted speed limit and be prepared to stop.

Authored By: Rep. Alan Powell (32nd)

Rule Applied: Modified-Structured

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

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Today on the Floor

HB 779

Crimes and offenses; regulate use of unmanned aircraft systems and images; provisions
Bill Summary: HB 779 regulates the use of drones in Georgia. Except for military or governmental contracts involving research, it is unlawful to sell, manufacture, possess, or operate an unmanned aerial vehicle that is equipped with a weapon. The punishment for such conduct is a felony. Moreover, the bill provides that state law preempts any local law or ordinance unless such ordinance has been enacted prior to April 1. HB 779 also provides for the creation of the Unmanned Aircraft Commission with the purpose of increasing the amount of industry located within Georgia regarding the manufacture, research, and development of unmanned aircraft.

Authored By: Rep. Kevin Tanner (9th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Structured

Motions to Agree as Amended: (A motion to agree as amended by the House sends this bill back to the Senate for consideration.)

HB 784

Insurance; advertising and promotional items not exceeding $100 will not be considered an unfair trade practice; provide
Bill Summary: House Bill 784 clarifies the prohibition of gifts from insurance agents to their current or prospective clients. It allows a gift, not to exceed $100 per year, for promotional purposes. The gift cannot be contingent upon the purchase of a policy or other product.

Authored By: Rep. John Carson (46th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Open

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

HB 801

HOPE; include certain coursework in computer science as optional rigor requirements; revise provisions
Bill Summary: House Bill 801 provides for the addition of a computer science class in the category of advanced science to satisfy the eligibility requirements to receive the HOPE scholarship. The bill also adds certain STEM courses, as identified by the Board of Regents, to the classes eligible for the 0.5 point grade increase granted to equalize grade point averages (GPAs) of students taking college level courses while in high school. This portion of the legislation becomes effective on July 1, 2016. Section 3 changes the definitions of "factor rate", "HOPE award rate", and "HOPE tuition payment" relating to HOPE scholarships and grants and becomes effective July 1, 2020.

Authored By: Rep. Jan Jones (47th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Structured

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

HB 804

Superior courts; fifth judge of the Clayton Judicial Circuit; provide
Bill Summary: HB 804 adds a fifth judge to the superior courts of the Clayton Judicial Circuit. The additional judge will be appointed by the governor for a term beginning July 1, 2016 and continuing through December 31, 2018. The Clayton Judicial Circuit is also empowered to appoint an additional court reporter.

Authored By: Rep. Ronnie Mabra (63rd)

Rule Applied: Modified-Open

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

HB 851

Local government; annual audit of financial affairs, books, and records of boards of trustees of county law libraries; require
Bill Summary: HB 851 revises the procedure for collecting law library fees and provides that excess funds, as determined by the board of trustees of a county law library, will be granted to charitable taxexempt organizations that provide civil legal representation for low-income people, or be used to purchase software, equipment, fixtures, or furnishings for any office related to county judicial facilities or services, including but not limited to courtrooms and jury rooms. Currently, excess funds are granted to the former or distributed to the county governing authority and then are appropriated for courthouse maintenance through the budgetary process.

In addition, the bill adds the district attorney of the circuit in which the county is located to the county

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Today on the Floor

law library board of trustees.

Lastly, HB 851 requires county law libraries to have an annual audit of its financial affairs, books, and accounts performed by a certified public accountant.

Authored By: Rep. Alex Atwood (179th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Open

Motions to Agree as Amended: (A motion to agree as amended by the House sends this bill back to the Senate for consideration.)

HB 887

Courts; parental rights; prioritize placement of a child with an adult or fictive kin qualified to care for such child
Bill Summary: HB 889 provides that a legal custodian of a child, through the use of a properly executed power of attorney, may delegate caregiving authority regarding such child for a period not to exceed one year, unless that legal custodian is a member of the Armed Forces of the United States. The delegation of the power of attorney shall not operate to change, modify, or deprive any parental right, legal right, or authority of such legal custodian. Such delegation can be made without a court order, but can be accomplished through a signed affidavit, confirmed by a notary public, acknowledging the power of attorney. The attorney-in-fact under the power of attorney for the care and custody of a child shall act in the best interest of said child. Moreover, the attorney-in-fact shall have the right to enroll the child in public school serving the area where said individual resides. Moreover, the attorney-in-fact may seek emergency medical treatment, or other services for a child. Such execution in the change of power-of-attorney shall not be for the purposes of enrolling said child in a school to participate in the academic or interscholastic athletic programs, or for the purposes of subverting an investigation into such child's welfare. The legal custodian of a child shall have the authority to revoke or withdraw the power of attorney.

HB 887 prioritizes the placement of a child in a dependency hearing with a relative who is a qualified adult or fictive kin, not related by blood or marriage, when it is in the best interests of the child.

Authored By: Rep. Chuck Efstration (104th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Structured

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

HB 899

Commerce and trade; tobacco product manufacturers; revise and add certain definitions
Bill Summary: This legislation makes certain changes to Georgia's escrow laws relating to tobacco product manufacturers to satisfy state commitments relating to the tobacco master settlement agreement.

Authored By: Rep. Jay Powell (171st)

Rule Applied: Structured

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

HB 910

Health records; provisions relating to costs of copying and mailing patient records apply to psychiatric, psychological, and other mental health records; provide
Bill Summary: HB 910 amends O.C.G.A 31-33-3, relating to costs of copying and mailing health records and patient's rights as to records, by expanding this Code section to apply to psychiatric, psychological, and other mental health records of a patient.

Authored By: Rep. Spencer Frye (118th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Open

Motions to Agree as Amended: (A motion to agree as amended by the House sends this bill back to the Senate for consideration.)

HB 920

Health; hospitals and related institutions; restrict civil actions against passive investors in nursing homes and intermediate care homes
Bill Summary: HB 920 amends the Code relating to the regulation of hospitals and related institutions to restrict civil actions against passive investors in nursing homes and intermediate care homes. The person or entity alleging to be a passive investor shall only be added as a party to a civil action or arbitration proceeding upon a determination by a court or arbitrator that such person or

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entity is in fact a licensee or management or consulting company, and the plaintiff shall bear the burden of proof of such proceedings. Where a defendant claims to be a passive investor and files a motion to dismiss or motion for summary judgment, then all discovery, whether relating to the passive investor issue or other defendants, shall be automatically stayed until the court or arbitrator rules on such motion. The court or arbitrator shall not permit discovery relating to the motion to dismiss or for summary judgment and shall order a continuance.

A defendant that is a licensee, management or consulting company is precluded from identifying a non-party passive investor as a potentially at-fault nonparty for purposes of apportionment, unless that passive-investor nonparty has entered into a settlement agreement with the plaintiff or claimant.

Authored By: Rep. Trey Kelley (16th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Structured

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

HB 962

Human Services, Department of; creation, appointment, removal, and duties of a kinship care enforcement administrator; provide
Bill Summary: HB 962 creates a Kinship Care Enforcement Administrator position within the Department of Human Services which is approved and removed by the board, and subject to the approval of the governor. The purpose of the position is to coordinate and ensure compliance with federal regulations regarding children being raised by family members or close family friends.

In addition, the bill authorizes the Department of Human Services to provide a separate link or portal on its website specifically for kinship caregivers in order to provide information on public assistance benefits.

The bill also provides that a qualified dependent of an active duty military service member, maintaining their legal residence in Georgia, has the right to apply for and retain earned priority for medical assistance or developmental disability services despite a temporary change of residence outside of the state due to military service.

Authored By: Rep. Stacey Abrams (89th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Open

Motions to Agree as Amended: (A motion to agree as amended by the House sends this bill back to the Senate for consideration.)

HB 1028 Natural Resources, Department of; Environmental Protection Division; provide notice to affected localities upon certain events relating to permitted solid or hazardous waste facilities
Bill Summary: HB 1028 requires the owner or operator of a municipal solid waste landfill to notify the local governing authorities of any release of a contaminant which is likely to pose a danger to human health within 14 days of confirmation of the release by the Environmental Protection Division. Notification of the release must also be published in the legal organ in which the landfill is located.
Authored By: Rep. William Werkheiser (157th) Rule Applied: Structured Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

HB 1036 Eminent domain; construction of petroleum pipelines and the environmental permitting requirements; change certain provisions
Bill Summary: HB 1036 changes certain provisions relating to the exercise of power of eminent domain for the construction of petroleum pipelines and the environmental permitting requirements for petroleum pipelines, as well as to suspend the receipt of certain applications and the issuance of certain approvals.
There is to be created the State Commission on Petroleum Pipelines to be composed of three members of the House of Representatives to be appointed by the speaker of the House of Representatives; three members of the Senate will be appointed by the president of the Senate; the director of the Environmental Protection Division of the Department of Natural Resources; the commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs; and five members to be appointed by the
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governor, including one member who shall represent the petroleum industry and four members who shall represent a cross section of interests of local government, business, agriculture, and conservation.
No state officer, official, or employee or any state agency, department, commission, or committee shall issue any approval, permit, or document necessary for the construction of a pipeline, including, but not limited to, the granting of any easement, deed, license or permission to cross over, under, or through any: body of water, state wildlife management areas, heritage or historic preserve areas, or historical sites; area of particular concern as set out in the State of Georgia Coastal Management Program as existed on January 1, 2016; or public road of the state highway system.
The temporary suspension of the power of eminent domain and temporary suspension of the issuance of approvals, permits, or documents provided in this Code section shall not apply to acquisitions, approvals, permits, or documents for the purposes of: maintaining an existing pipeline facility in place; replacing lines within 200 feet of an existing pipeline facility; or relocating temporary work space for repairs of an existing pipeline facility. For purposes of this subsection, the term "existing pipeline facility" means a pipeline facility constructed and in use prior to January 1, 2016.

Authored By: Rep. Bill Hitchens (161st)

Rule Applied: Modified-Structured

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

HB 1058 Health; HIV and AIDS; revise various statutes
Bill Summary: HB 1058 allows women to have the opportunity to refuse a HIV test during a pregnancy screening. This bill removes the requirement for the Department of Public Health to develop brochures or other documents relating to HIV tests.

Authored By: Rep. Betty Price (48th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Structured

Motions to Agree: (A motion to agree represents final passage of the bill.)

HR 1113 Judicial Qualifications Commission; create - CA
Bill Summary: HR 1113 amends Georgia Constitution Paragraph VI Section VII of Article VI by abolishing the existing Judicial Qualifications Commission (JQC) as of December 31, 2016, in order for the General Assembly to create and provide by general law for the composition, manner of appointment, and governance of a new Judicial Qualifications Commission. The new commission would still have the power to discipline, remove, and cause involuntary retirement of judges, those provisions would not change. This bill would also provide that the JQC will be required to comport with due process requirements and its decisions be subject to review.

This amendment will be published for ballot approval as provided in Article X, Section I, Paragraph II of the Constitution.

Authored By: Rep. Wendell Willard (51st)

Rule Applied: Modified-Structured

Motions to Agree as Amended: (A motion to agree as amended by the House sends this bill back to the Senate for

consideration.)

Motions to Disagree
SB 64 Juvenile Code, Domestic Relations, and Vital Records; repeal voluntary acknowledgments of legitimation
Bill Summary: SB 64 revises the definition of "legal father" and makes grammatical corrections to provide consistency within the Juvenile Code. The administrative legitimation as a means of defining legal father is removed. The bill also clarifies the language whereby only a biological father may legitimate his child and also what is required in that petition. The bill adds a provision allowing the court to insure that the petitioning alleged biological father is, in fact, the biological father and may order genetic testing. The Code is further refined so that the hospital in which a child is born must
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provide paternity acknowledgement forms prior to the birth of the child rather than after. The bill adds a requirement that the hospital provide the mother and the alleged father with the opportunity to execute a voluntary acknowledgement of paternity within 30 days of birth. Acknowledgement of paternity shall constitute a legal determination of paternity if sworn to and signed in the presence of a notary public or other witness.

Authored By: Sen. Chuck Hufstetler (52nd)

Rule Applied: Modified-Structured

Motions to Disagree: (A motion to disagree sends the bill back to the Senate for consideration.)

Rules Calendar
HR 1254 Medicaid care management organizations; cover certain attention deficit hyperactivity disorder medications; encourage
Bill Summary: HR 1254 encourages Medicaid care management organizations to cover certain attention deficit hyperactivity disorder medications.

Authored By: Rep. Mickey Stephens (165th) House Committee: Health & Human Services

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 160 Nays: 0

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

Modified-Open 03-14-2016 Do Pass

HR 1564 Public Health, Department of; sudden cardiac arrest prevention education courses; encourage
Bill Summary: House Resolution 1564 encourages local boards of education, governing bodies of non-public schools, and governing bodies of charter schools to adopt and implement a sudden cardiac arrest and return to play policy.

Authored By: Rep. David Clark (98th) House Committee: Education

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 162 Nays: 0

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

Modified-Open 03-09-2016 Do Pass

SB 1

Insurance; provide for certain insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorders
Bill Summary: Senate Bill 1 requires insurance companies that sell health insurance plans through an agent in Georgia to compensate the agent with a minimum of five percent of the collected premium required for small group policies and four percent of the collected premium required for individual policies.

Authored By: Sen. Charlie Bethel (54th) House Committee: Insurance

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 150 Nays: 11

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

03-22-2016 Do Pass by Committee Substitute

SB 18

Technical College System of Georgia; establish policies for granting academic credit for college level learning from military service, work experience
Bill Summary: Senate Bill 18 requires the Technical College System of Georgia to establish policies for granting academic credit to active duty military or veteran students for college-level learning acquired prior to their enrollment from military service. Training and experience from military service must be substantially related to the coursework credit given by the Technical College System of Georgia.

Authored By: Sen. Ed Harbison (15th) House Committee: Higher Education

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 164 Nays: 0

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

Modified-Open 03-15-2016 Do Pass by Committee Substitute

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SB 168

State Symbols; designate the Old Governor's Mansion as the official state historic house
Bill Summary: SB 168 designates the Old Governor's Mansion, located at Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville, as the official state historic house. The bill encourages the Department of Economic Development and other public agencies and leaders in the tourism industry to work together to maximize advertising programs that permit citizens of other states and nations to learn about the Old Governor's Mansion and to visit Georgia for tourism purposes.

The bill also designates the adoptable dog as the official state dog.

Authored By: Sen. Burt Jones (25th) House Committee: Judiciary

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 168 Nays: 0

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

Modified-Structured 03-08-2016 Do Pass

SB 184 Dogs; provide breed-specific regulation shall be limited to enactment by general law
Bill Summary: Senate Bill 184 prohibits local governments from adopting ordinances that require hunting dogs or show dogs to be spayed or neutered, or from charging a fee to not spay or neuter.

Authored By: Sen. Ellis Black (8th) House Committee: Governmental Affairs

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 125 Nays: 41

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

Modified-Structured 03-09-2016 Do Pass by Committee Substitute

SB 230

'Uniform Emergency Volunteer Health Practitioners Act'; enactment
Bill Summary: SB 230 establishes the 'Uniform Emergency Volunteer Health Practitioners Act'. In the event of a natural disaster or when an emergency declaration is in effect, this bill allows the governor to utilize volunteer health practitioners who are not residents of this state but are employed by a disaster relief organization providing services in this state. The governor has discretion to define the length, scope, and geographical areas in which these volunteer health practitioners may work. The Department of Public Health is required to maintain a registry system that has the ability to accept applications from volunteer health practitioners and monitor and confirm the licensure and good standing of such applicants.

Authored By: Sen. Chuck Hufstetler (52nd) House Committee: Health & Human Services

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 164 Nays: 5

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

Modified-Open 03-10-2016 Do Pass

SB 258

Ad Valorem Tax; provide the assessed value of property shall not be increased beyond the initial assessment value
Bill Summary: SB 258 amends current law whereby a person can lock in a property tax assessment for three years by appealing the tax assessment. This legislation provides that the assessed value following such appeal can be decreased, but not increased. It also provides language to facilitate written agreements between taxpayers and tax assessment boards to resolve assessment issues.

Second, this legislation allows an eligible disabled veteran to qualify for the homestead exemption by meeting either, rather than both, of the standards required by law, which are either: status as a citizen and domiciliary in Georgia honorably discharged and with a service disability, or compensated at the 100 percent disability level as unemployable; or permanent loss of one or both feet, hands, or sight in one or both eyes.

This legislation also provides for tax credits for contributions to rural "health care organizations," defined as health organizations located in rural counties, participating in both Medicaid and Medicare, providing health care to primarily indigent patients, and receiving at least 10 percent of their gross net revenues from the treatment of indigent patients. Aggregate tax credits are capped at $100 million per year.

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Daily Report for March 22, 2016

Today on the Floor

In the case of a single individual or head of household, a rural health care organization tax credit shall be for 80 percent of the actual amount expended or $2,500 per year, whichever is less. In the case of a married couple filing a joint return, the credit shall be for 90 percent of the actual amount expended or $5,000 per year, whichever is less. In the case of a corporation, the credit shall not exceed 90 percent of the amount expended or 75 percent of the corporation's income tax liability, whichever is less. The tax credit cannot exceed a taxpayer's income tax liability. Credits can carry forward, but cannot be applied retroactively.
This legislation places the tax credit program under the Department of Community Health, with legislative oversight facilitated by reporting requirements designed to determine the effectiveness of the credit program. To apply for a rural health care organization tax credit, the donor must notify the Department of Community Health of the total amount in contributions, at which point the department will preapprove the donation within 30 days. The donation must then be made by the donor within 60 days of receiving preapproval from the department.

Authored By: Sen. Fran Millar (40th) House Committee: Ways & Means

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 153 Nays: 15

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

Modified-Structured 03-15-2016 Do Pass by Committee Substitute

SB 270

Firearms; authorize qualified retired law enforcement officers to carry handgun anywhere within this state
Bill Summary: Senate Bill 270 provides penalty for a person who commits the offense of transmitting a false public alarm when he or she knowingly transmits a report or warning while knowing at the time there is no reasonable ground for believing the report when the report relates to a destructive device or hazardous substance; or an individual who has caused or threatened to cause physical harm to himself or someone else.

The penalty for this violation would be a misdemeanor on the first offense and felony upon the second, unless the location of the violation is critical infrastructure in which case the person is guilty of a felony.

The bill includes several other provisions which clean up the firearms Code in Title 16. The bill provides for new Georgia residents who have a carry license issued by a state which recognizes Georgia licenses to have 90 days in order to get their Georgia license. The bill states that persons who have a valid hunting or fishing license are not required to have on their person a carry license when they are engaged in legal hunting, fishing, or sport shooting on recreational or wildlife management areas owned by the state.

This legislation allows a person who leaves a place of worship upon notification that firearms are prohibited to avoid being cited as violating the Code. The bill also allows probate judges receiving applications for permits, to issue printed information on firearms safety courses. The bill also requires the Department of Natural Resources to provide on their principal website, information on hunter education and classes in this state that render gun safety instruction.

Another provision of the bill adds to the exemption for retired law enforcement carry privileges to include officers who are citizens of this state and have an aggregate of ten years in law enforcement with arrest powers, separated from service in good standing, and have an identification card for retired law enforcement. The bill clarifies definitions for "commercial service airport" and "major airline carrier" as it applies to those who carry a weapon into a commercial airport. Finally, the legislation provides immunity from civil liability from injuries caused by the failure of a person to use a firearm properly or lawfully to those instructors who provide safety training.

The legislation allows the chief of staff to the commissioner of the Department of Corrections to issue a warrant for the arrest of an offender who has escaped from the custody of the department.

Page 11 of 21

House of Representatives

Daily Report for March 22, 2016

Today on the Floor

Under this legislation an employee leaving the service of the board under honorable conditions who has accumulated 20 years or more of service with board, or 20 or more years of combined service as a parole officer, a probation officer or supervisor with the Department of Corrections, or a community supervision officer with the department may retain his or her board issued weapon and badge. When a parole officer leaves the employment of the board as a result of disability arising in the line of duty, he is entitled as part of his compensation to retain his or weapon and badge in accordance with the board's rules and regulations. Should a parole officer be killed in the line of duty his board issued badge is eligible to be given to a surviving family member.

The application fee for an adult offender applying to transfer his or her supervision from Georgia to any other state or territory is increased from $25.00 to $100.00.

This legislation makes it unlawful for any individual, with the intent to secure a tangible benefit for him or herself, to make a false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement or representation that such individual is a military veteran or the recipient of a military decoration. Moreover, it is unlawful for any individual, with the intent to deceive, to appear in court while wearing a military uniform or military decoration. The penalty for this offense is punished as a misdemeanor, but if a military decoration is involved in the violation, the punishment is a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature.

Authored By: Sen. P. K. Martin (9th)

Rule Applied:

House Committee: Public Safety & Homeland Security Committee Action:

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 114 Nays: 50

Amendments:

Modified-Structured 03-15-2016 Do Pass by Committee Substitute AM 41 0207; AM 41 0211

SB 271

Mental Health; provide reasonable standards for providing patients notice; admission to an emergency receiving facility
Bill Summary: SB 271 improves the administrative processes occurring within certain mental health facilities. The bill allows additional time during which an emergency receiving facility must notify a person of his right to petition for a writ of habeas corpus, or file for a protective order in event the person's condition or mental state renders him incapable of fully understanding his right at the time of arrival. Additionally, current law allows courts to order up to six months of involuntary treatment for certain individuals. In the event that continued involuntary treatment is recommended, the recommendation must be reviewed by the Committee for Continued Involuntary Treatment Review. Finally, the bill proposes a process that if within 40 days of the expiration of the authorized treatment period a person is deemed unsafe for discharge, the chief medical officer of a facility may execute a certificate to be filed with a petition for continued involuntary treatment.

Authored By: Sen. Dean Burke (11th) House Committee: Health & Human Services

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 161 Nays: 7

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

Modified-Open 03-10-2016 Do Pass

SB 275

Local Government; governing body shall not adopt policy that has effect of preventing free exercise of the right of freedom of speech by the members
Bill Summary: SB 275 provides that a local board of education shall not prevent the board members from discussing the policies and actions of the board outside of a board meeting unless it is an "executive session", which as defined in statute is lawfully closed to the public.

Authored By: Sen. Michael Williams (27th) House Committee: Judiciary

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 138 Nays: 33

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

Modified-Structured 03-10-2016 Do Pass by Committee Substitute

Page 12 of 21

House of Representatives

Daily Report for March 22, 2016

Today on the Floor

SB 320

Driver's License; revise exemptions afforded to nonresidents issued to them in in home state/country
Bill Summary: Senate Bill 320 revises the existing exemptions afforded to nonresidents possessing a valid driver's license issued by their home state or country. This bill also provides alternative options for accepting validity of a driver's license issued by a foreign country as well as exceptions. Drivers with a license issued by a foreign country would not be required to have an international driver's license to drive through Georgia and would allow law enforcement to consult the person's passport or visa to verify validity.

The legislation also amends Title 40 relating to regulation of carriers and requires taxi services operating in this state to register with the Department of Public Safety and renew a license for operation annually. They must maintain a current list of all drivers utilized by the service. Such lists would not be subject to open records request. Taxi services would be responsible for making sure each driver has proper permits or licenses required federally or by this state as well as their for-hire license endorsement. They must also employ a zero tolerance drug and alcohol policy and maintain personal injury and property damage liability insurance. SB 320 removes the requirement for the individual driver to provide proof of liability coverage in order to be eligible for a for-hire license endorsement.

The legislation also states that anyone found to have violated the gratuities prohibition relating to DUI schools or programs a second time will have his or her license revoked as provided for in existing Code.

Finally, the bill allows any county, municipality, or consolidated government to require proof of insurance or proof of payment of such insurance and to verify such insurance when issuing or renewing a certificate of public necessity and convenience or medallion.

Authored By: Sen. Ben Watson (1st)

Rule Applied:

House Committee: Public Safety & Homeland Security Committee Action:

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 165 Nays: 0

Amendments:

Modified-Structured 03-15-2016 Do Pass by Committee Substitute AM 41 0200

SB 323

State Printing and Documents; public disclosure not be required for any documents pertaining to economic development project
Bill Summary: Senate Bill 323 establishes the time period for a response to an open records request of a college sports program or athletic association as 90 business days from the date the request is received. The salary information of non-clerical staff is not included in the provisions of this bill.
Further, it expands the provisions for non-disclosure on economic development projects for the Department of Economic Development to all state agencies.

Authored By: Sen. Mike Dugan (30th) House Committee: Governmental Affairs

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 166 Nays: 2

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

Modified-Structured 03-15-2016 Do Pass
AM 25 1383

SB 327

State Purchasing; prohibit the state from entering into certain contracts unless such contracts contain a certification; does not presently conduct a boycott of Israel
Bill Summary: SB 327 states that any entity of the state of Georgia may not enter into a contract regarding construction or the provision of services, supplies, or information technology with an individual or company without including written certification that the individual is not currently, nor will during the duration of the contract, engage in a boycott of Israel. This applies to contracts valued over $1,000.

Authored By: Sen. Judson Hill (32nd) House Committee: State Properties

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 95 Nays: 71

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

Modified-Structured 03-14-2016 Do Pass by Committee Substitute

Page 13 of 21

House of Representatives

Daily Report for March 22, 2016

Today on the Floor

SB 329

Education; expand provisions relating to awarding of high school dipolmas based on certain dual credit coursework
Bill Summary: Senate Bill 329 provides that students who have earned certification to work in an "in-need" industry as determined by the Technical College System of Georgia and have completed college dual-credit coursework are to be awarded a high school diploma. Additionally, SB 329 expands HOPE scholarship eligibility to students meeting these requirements.

Authored By: Sen. Lindsey Tippins (37th) House Committee: Education

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 169 Nays: 0

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

Modified-Structured 03-09-2016 Do Pass

SB 332

Public Order and Safety; clarify the judges and justices who are exempt; various weapon carry laws and prohibitions
Bill Summary: Senate Bill 332 clarifies which judges are exempt from weapon carry prohibitions in Georgia Code. Those judges are: federal judges; justices of the Supreme Court; judges of the Court of Appeals; judges of superior, state, probate, juvenile, and magistrate courts; full-time judges of municipal and city courts; permanent part-time judges of municipal and city courts, and administrative law judges.
Additionally, the legislation requires the judge of the probate court to issue personal identification cards to any judge or justice given exemption to carry prohibitions when applying to the judge of the probate court. The Council of Probate Court Judges of Georgia will set a fee which the probate judge shall collect from the judge or justice applying for such identification card.

Authored By: Sen. John Kennedy (18th)

Rule Applied:

House Committee: Public Safety & Homeland Security Committee Action:

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 164 Nays: 0

Amendments:

Modified-Structured 03-16-2016 Do Pass by Committee Substitute

SB 346

"Environmental Policy Act"; exempt projects for construction/improvement of public roads from environmental effects reports
Bill Summary: Senate Bill 346 amends the 'Environmental Policy Act' so that a project of a department, municipality, county, or authority to construct or improve a public road or airport that does not exceed $100 million in costs shall not constitute a proposed governmental action which may significantly or adversely affect the quality of the environment. These projects are not be required to file formal reports with the Environmental Protection Division if an environmental evaluation shows that there would be no significant adverse impact on historical sites or buildings and cultural resources.

Authored By: Sen. Brandon Beach (21st) House Committee: Transportation

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 146 Nays: 22

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

Modified-Structured 03-14-2016 Do Pass by Committee Substitute

SB 348

Education; provide for colleges and career academies as charter school or schools within a strategic waivers school system
Bill Summary: Senate Bill 348 amends the BRIDGE Act to allow local school systems to create a college and career academy as part of a contract to act as a strategic waivers school system or charter school. This bill also provides training requirements for the governing board of a college and career academy, including, but not limited to, best practices, constitutional and statutory requirements, and applicable statutes, rules, and regulations.

Authored By: Sen. Lindsey Tippins (37th) House Committee: Education

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 161 Nays: 0

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

Page 14 of 21

Modified-Structured 03-11-2016 Do Pass

House of Representatives

Daily Report for March 22, 2016

Today on the Floor

SB 383

Public Roads; Roadside Enhancement and Beautification Council; provide for purpose
Bill Summary: Senate Bill 383 removes the five-year waiting period on permits for trimming vegetation around a lawfully erected on premise sign promoting an agritourism facility as long as the sign comports with local ordinances.

Authored By: Sen. Frank Ginn (47th) House Committee: Transportation

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 167 Nays: 1

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

Modified-Structured 03-14-2016 Do Pass by Committee Substitute

SB 417

'Georgia Film and Television Trail Act'; create; provide definitions; purpose
Bill Summary: SB 417 creates the 'Georgia Film and Television Trail Act'. This bill enables the Department of Economic Development to plan and develop trails in film site locations throughout the state, which shall be planned, constructed and maintained on a long-term basis. Local government and private entities will be allowed and encouraged to provide for the development and maintenance of the trail as well as trail signs. The bill provides property owners of portions of the trail immunity for acts of others that occur on the trail, but other forms of premises liability are not immunized. The Department of Economic Development is authorized to adopt and promulgate such rules and regulations as may be necessary to carry out this article.

Authored By: Sen. Jeff Mullis (53rd)

Rule Applied:

House Committee: Economic Development & Tourism Committee Action:

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 145 Nays: 19

Amendments:

Modified-Open 03-15-2016 Do Pass by Committee Substitute AM 41 0203

SB 420

Local Government; require referendum approval prior to the expenditure of public funds; establishment of a fixed guideway transit
Bill Summary: Senate Bill 420 requires a public referendum vote before public funds may be expended on the expansion, maintenance, and operation of a fixed guideway transit in any county that is a mass transit regional system participant.

Authored By: Sen. Lindsey Tippins (37th) House Committee: Transportation

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 163 Nays: 3

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

Modified-Structured 03-14-2016 Do Pass
AM 39 0168

SR 954

Public Property; granting of nonexclusive easements for the construction, operation, and maintenance of facilities, utilities, roads; 16 counties
Bill Summary: SR 954 authorizes the granting of nonexclusive easements for the construction, operation, and maintenance of facilities, utilities, roads, and ingress and egress in, on, over, under, upon, across, or through property owned by the State of Georgia in the counties of Bartow, Bulloch, Carroll, Chatham, Columbia, Coweta, DeKalb, Emanuel, Gordon, Henry, Marion, Murray, Paulding, Sumter, Ware, and Whitfield.

Article 1 grants an easement to Georgia Power Company and assigns over approximately 1.7 acres under the custody of the Technical College System of Georgia for the construction, installation, operation and maintenance of underground distribution lines and associated equipment to serve the new Natural Resources Building (TCSG-269) at Ogeechee Technical College in Bulloch County for $10.

Article 2 grants an easement to Georgia Power Company and assigns over approximately 3.256 acres under the custody of the Department of Natural Resources for the construction, installation, operation and maintenance of underground distribution lines and associated equipment to serve structures at University of Georgia at the Wormsloe Historic Site in Chatham County for $10.

Page 15 of 21

House of Representatives

Daily Report for March 22, 2016

Today on the Floor

Article 3 grants an easement to Georgia Power Company and assigns over approximately 0.1 of an acre under the custody of the Technical College System of Georgia for the construction, installation, operation and maintenance of underground distribution lines and associated equipment to serve an outdoor electronic sign at Augusta Technical College in Columbia County for $10.
Article 4 grants an easement to Georgia Power Company and assigns over approximately 0.04 of an acre under the custody of the Georgia Department of Defense for the construction, installation, operation and maintenance of underground distribution lines and associated equipment to serve the new facilities at Decatur Armory in Dekalb County for $10.
Article 5 grants an easement to Excelsior Electrical Membership Corporation and assigns over approximately 0.16 of an acre under the custody of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources for the construction, installation, operation and maintenance of distribution lines and associated equipment to serve new Group Shelters at George L. Smith State Park in Emanuel County for $10.
Article 6 grants an easement to the Georgia Department of Transportation and assigns over approximately 0.12 of an acre over Western and Atlantic Railroad property under the custody of the State Properties Commission for a road widening project and the construction and maintenance of a bridge on the South Calhoun Bypass from SR53 at CR13 East to SR53 at CR64 in Gordon County for $10.
Article 7 grants an easement to Snapping Shoals Electrical Membership Corporation and assigns over approximately 1.51 acres under the custody of the Technical College System of Georgia for the construction, installation, operation and maintenance of underground distribution lines and associated equipment to serve the new Henry County Campus (TCSG-248) of Southern Crescent Technical College for $10.
Article 8 grants an easement to Flint Electrical Membership Corporation (Flint Energies) and assigns over approximately 0.03 of an acre under the custody of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources for the construction, installation, operation and maintenance of underground distribution lines and associated equipment to serve a new building at Chattahoochee Fall Line Wildlife Management Area in Marion County for $10.
Article 9 grants an easement to the Georgia Department of Transportation and assigns over approximately 0.25 of an acre under the custody of the Technical College System of Georgia for the construction of storm water drainage system and road improvement project at South Georgia Technical College in Sumter County for $7,000.
Article 10 grants an easement to Georgia Power Company and assigns over approximately 0.3 of an acre under the custody of the Department of Natural Resources for the construction, installation, operation and maintenance of underground distribution lines and associated equipment to serve six new cabins at Laura S. Walker State Park in Ware County for $10.
Article 11 grants an easement to Sabal Trail Transmission, LLC (Sabal) and assigns over approximately 0.03 of an acre under the custody of the Department of Natural Resources for the construction, installation, operation and maintenance of a natural gas pipeline, associated equipment and facilities under navigable waters of the State of Georgia in Brooks, Colquitt, Dougherty, Lowndes, and Stewart Counties for fair market value but not less than $650.
Article 12 grants the following easements:
An easement to Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company (Transco) and assigns over approximately 0.69 of an acre under the custody of the Department of Natural Resources for the construction, installation, operation and maintenance of a natural gas pipeline, associated equipment under and over land and navigable waters of the State of Georgia in Bartow County for fair market value but not less than $650;
An easement to Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company (Transco) and assigns over approximately
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House of Representatives

Daily Report for March 22, 2016

Today on the Floor

0.33 of an acre under the custody of the Department of Natural Resources for the construction, installation, operation and maintenance of a natural gas pipeline, associated equipment under and over land and navigable waters of the State of Georgia in Carroll and Coweta Counties for fair market value but not less than $650;

An easement to Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company (Transco) and assigns over approximately 0.22 of an acre under the custody of the Department of Natural Resources for the construction, installation, operation and maintenance of a natural gas pipeline, associated equipment under and over land and navigable waters of the State of Georgia in Gordon County for fair market value but not less than $650;

An easement to Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company (Transco) and assigns over approximately 0.26 of an acre under the custody of the Department of Natural Resources for the construction, installation, operation and maintenance of a natural gas pipeline, associated equipment under and over land and navigable waters of the State of Georgia in Murray County for fair market value but not less than $650;

An easement to Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company (Transco) and assigns over approximately 1.1 of an acre under the custody of the Department of Natural Resources for the construction, installation, operation and maintenance of a natural gas pipeline, associated equipment under and over land and navigable waters of the State of Georgia in Murray and Whitefield Counties for fair market value but not less than $650; and

An easement to Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company (Transco) or its successors and assigns over approximately 10.47 acres under the custody of the Department of Natural Resources for the construction, installation, operation and maintenance of a natural gas pipeline, associated equipment under and over land and navigable waters of the State of Georgia in Paulding County for fair market value but not less than $650.

Authored By: Sen. Rick Jeffares (17th) House Committee: State Properties

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 34 Nays: 128

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

Modified-Structured 03-10-2016 Do Pass by Committee Substitute

Postponed Until Next Legislative Day
HB 1131 Atlanta, City of; levy a retail sales and use tax
Bill Summary: A Bill to provide for the levy of retail sales and use tax by the City of Atlanta for the purpose of providing public transportation of passengers for hire in the metropolitan area of the City of Atlanta.

Authored By: Rep. Pat Gardner (57th)

Rule Applied:

SB 145

Board of Community Health; provide that one member of the board is member of the state health benefit plan
Bill Summary: Senate Bill 145 allows for manufacturers of low tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) oil to ship low THC oil to a person properly registered with the Department of Public Health in Georgia. It expands the list of conditions for which low THC oil can be administered by including autism, epidermolysis bullosa, HIV, peripheral neuropathy, tourette's syndrome, terminal illness, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Moreover, SB 145 includes low THC oil into the code regarding driving under the influence.

Authored By: Sen. Joshua McKoon (29th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Structured

Page 17 of 21

House of Representatives

Daily Report for March 22, 2016

Today on the Floor

SB 199

Elections; provide for a definition; prohibit certain activities within close proximity to polling places
Bill Summary: Senate Bill 199 establishes a definition for "campaign material" and prevents it from being distributed or displayed within the area of a voting precinct restricted from campaigning activities. Campaign material is defined as any newspaper, booklet, pamphlet, card, sign, paraphernalia, or any other written or printed matter referring to a candidate whose name appears on the ballot in a primary or election; a referendum which appears on the ballot in a primary or election, or a political party or body which has a nominee or nominees on the ballot in a primary or election.

It provides for the reopening of qualifications in municipal elections if someone fails to qualify during the regular qualifying period. Under current law, it would require the calling of a special election.

It allows local governments, by local act of the General Assembly, to establish residency requirements for qualification purposes of local elections.

Authored By: Sen. Rick Jeffares (17th)

Rule Applied: Modified-Structured

SB 255

Garnishment Proceedings; modernize, reorganize, and provide constitutional protections
Bill Summary: SB 255 enacts a new chapter outlining procedures, deadlines and constitutional protections in conducting garnishment proceedings. The bill requires judgment debtors to be notified that there are certain exemptions under state and federal law that the debtor may be entitled to claim with respect to the garnished property, as well as the procedures to claim the exemptions. The bill stipulates that the garnishment period, the time during which the garnishee shall freeze funds to be submitted to the court with the garnishee's answer, begins on the day of service of the summons. The total garnishment period for a continuing garnishment is 180 days; a financial institution garnishment (other than a continuing garnishment or continuing garnishment for support) is six days; a continuing garnishment for support lasts as long as the defendant is employed by the garnishee and the original arrearage is retired; and all other garnishments for 30 days. Additionally, standardized forms are provided. The forms contained in this article for the summons of garnishment, garnishee's answer, defendant's claim, and the like for continuing garnishments and garnishments on financial institutions shall be required to be used; provided, however, that a party may use its own format so long as it contains all of the information in those forms.

Authored By: Sen. Jesse Stone (23rd)

Rule Applied: Modified-Structured

SB 319

Professional Counseling; revise the definition
Bill Summary: SB 319 clarifies and allows for professional counselors to diagnose emotional and mental problems or conditions. In addition, the bill requires the board which governs professional counselors to develop curriculum of continuing education for licensed practitioners relating to diagnosing individuals with mental illness, developmental disabilities, or substance abuse, and the board shall retain its full authority to determine education, experience, and training required of its licensees. Moreover, SB 319 clarifies psychological testing, and that performing such psychological testing is only within the scope of practice of psychologists.

Authored By: Sen. Lester Jackson (2nd)

Rule Applied: Modified-Structured

SR 604

Revenue and Taxation; prohibit the levy of state ad valorem taxes -CA
Bill Summary: SR 604 proposes a constitutional amendment to prohibit the state from levying a quarter mill ad valorem tax. Such a tax is currently not being levied in Georgia. This legislation does not apply to the ad valorem taxation of public utilities, railroad companies, and airlines on behalf of local governments, or to administrative functions with respect to local ad valorem taxation, and it is not retroactive.

Authored By: Sen. Bill Heath (31st)

Rule Applied: Structured

Page 18 of 21

House of Representatives

Daily Report for March 22, 2016

Today on the Floor

Local Calendar
HB 1149 Liberty County; Board of Education; reimbursement of expenses for chairperson and members; provide
Bill Summary: A Bill to amend the Board of Education of Liberty County, so as to provide for reimbursement of expenses for the chairperson and members of the board.

Authored By: Rep. Al Williams (168th)

House Committee: Intragovernmental Coordination Local

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 139 Nays: 0

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

03-21-2016 Do Pass

HB 1152 Seminole County; Board of Commissioners; compensation of chairperson and commissioners; change provisions
Bill Summary: A Bill to amend the Board of Commissioners of Seminole County, so as to change the provisions relating to the compensation of the chairperson and the other commissioners of the board.

Authored By: Rep. Winfred Dukes (154th)

House Committee: Intragovernmental Coordination Local

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 139 Nays: 0

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

03-21-2016 Do Pass

HB 1153 Greene County; certain officials; clarify the qualifications for participation in health insurance program
Bill Summary: A Bill to amend an Act to provide that certain officials of Greene County who have served at least 15 years in office may, upon leaving, continue to participate in the county health insurance program for themselves and their dependents by paying the total cost of such participation.

Authored By: Rep. Trey Rhodes (120th)

House Committee: Intragovernmental Coordination Local

Floor Vote:

Yeas: 139 Nays: 0

Rule Applied: Committee Action: Amendments:

03-21-2016 Do Pass

Page 19 of 21

House of Representatives

Daily Report for March 22, 2016

Committee Actions

Committee Actions
Bills passing committees are reported to the Clerk's Office and are placed on the General Calendar.

Insurance Committee
SB 1 Insurance; provide for certain insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorders
Bill Summary: Senate Bill 1 requires insurance companies that sell health insurance plans through an agent in Georgia to compensate the agent with a minimum of five percent of the collected premium required for small group policies and four percent of the collected premium required for individual policies.

Authored By: House Committee:

Sen. Charlie Bethel (54th) Insurance

Committee Action:

03-22-2016 Do Pass by Committee Substitute

Judiciary Committee
HR 1612 Senator Isakson and Senator Perdue; support efforts in the United States Senate to oppose the confirmation of any nominee to replace the late Antonin Scalia; encourage
Bill Summary: A resolution encouraging Senator Johnny Isakson and Senator David Perdue to support the appointment of only a successor to the late Justice Antonin Scalia who shares Justice Scalia's philosophy of textualism in statutory interpretation and originalism in constitutional interpretation in order to maintain balance in the United States Supreme Court.

Authored By: House Committee:

Rep. Sam Teasley (37th) Judiciary

Committee Action:

03-22-2016 Do Pass by Committee Substitute

Judiciary Non-Civil Committee
SB 304 Criminal Records; allow for the preservation of a person's involuntary hospitalization information received by Georgia Crime Information
Bill Summary: SB 304 outlines requirements for recording and reporting evidence collected during a forensic medical evaluation for investigations of rape or aggravated sodomy. Law enforcement officers collecting such evidence are required to provide notification to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation's division of forensic sciences (the division). The bill also requires law enforcement to submit the evidence within 30 days and follow the procedures of the division, regardless of whether the evidence will be tested.
In addition, every law enforcement agency in the state is required to create a list of evidence resulting from any forensic medical evaluation during an investigation of rape or aggravated sodomy in the agency's possession on July 1, 2016. The list must be submitted to the division by September 16, 2016 and must identify whether the listed evidence should be tested or stored. Evidence on the list must be transferred to the division no later than November 16, 2016.
SB 304 requires the division to issue an annual report detailing the number of rape and aggravated sodomy cases for which the division has tested or stored in evidence. The division is required to submit this annual report to the speaker of the House of Representatives, the lieutenant governor, the House Committee on Judiciary, the House Committee on Judiciary Non-Civil, and the Senate Judiciary Non-civil Committee.

Authored By: House Committee:

Sen. Elena Parent (42nd) Judiciary Non-Civil

Committee Action:

03-22-2016 Do Pass by Committee Substitute

Page 20 of 21

House of Representatives

Daily Report for March 22, 2016

Committee Actions

Committee Meeting Schedule
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 Notices.

Wednesday, March 23, 2016 9:00 AM SPECIAL RULES 515 CLOB

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