Legislative Session Opens

Let me first start by saying thank you for allowing me to serve as your State Representative! It is humbling that you all have given me the opportunity to represent the wonderful folks in our area as we begin the 2017-2018 legislative term.

Monday, Jan. 9th my colleagues and I gathered from across the state as we called to order the 154th Legislative Session of the Georgia General Assembly. It was great to see my legislative friends as we discussed plans to move Georgia forward. The first order of business took place Monday morning as we were all sworn into office. Soon after, we immediately began preparation for the long legislative days ahead. Issues such as healthcare access, education, medical cannabis, casino gaming and public safety initiatives will be up for debate.

State of the State

On Wednesday, Jan. 11th, Gov. Deal delivered his annual State of the State address covering our accomplishments from last year while highlighting hopes for the next. The Governor’s agenda includes a 20 percent pay raise for state-level law enforcement officers and newly developed officer training courses; an expansion of veteran assistance programs and healthcare access; expansion of Medicaid and PeachCare for Georgia youth; strengthening of Georgia’s drug monitoring program; last but certainly not least, a much deserved two percent pay increase for teachers.

The largest proposal in Gov. Deal’s agenda includes plans for the development of the Georgia Cyber Innovation and Training Center, a $50 million state-owned facility designed to promote innovation in cybersecurity technology. In conjunction with the Department of Defense and the National Security Agency this center will be teaching and preparing students to combat cyber-attacks. The addition of the Cyber Innovation and Training Center will ensure that Georgia is leading the national effort in preventing and fighting cyber-attacks, a major concern in today’s world. I look forward to carefully looking at each initiative before taking a final vote on the House floor.

Budget Hearings

Tuesday, Jan. 17th marks the beginning of what we refer to as “Budget Week.” Despite the hundreds of bills that will be discussed over the next 40 days, the only thing that we are constitutionally required to do by law is pass a balanced budget. In the coming days, we will anxiously await as the Appropriations Committee deliberates and makes suggestions as to where state funds should be allocated. I will keep you informed on funding and projects that will take place in our region and as I have done in years past, I will work to ensure our district receives the state assistance we need in order to be successful.

Rural Broadband Access

As many of you know, during the off-session season, I was honored to take part in the High-Speed Broadband Communications Access for all Georgians joint study committee. The committee was responsible for further exploration of the issues we are having with broadband services in less populated areas of our state. This session we will draft legislation, based off our committee findings, in an effort to improve cell phone and internet service in rural areas.

With more and more citizens telecommuting each day, this issue is crucial for our region’s growth and economic development. I am confident that we will find a solution to service these concerns.

As always, I will update you throughout session on what we are doing for Georgia citizens. Every piece of legislation is a living document, subject to change, until final passage in both chambers. If you ever need anything at all, please feel free to reach out to me. I welcome your ideas and would love to hear your concerns. If you are in Atlanta, please come by the Capitol or my office at 501 Coverdell Legislative Office Building. And if you let me know in advance, I can arrange a great Capitol tour for you.

Thank you again for allowing me the honor and privilege to serve you. I promise you—I will continue to work each and every day to make our state and community, the best that it can be.

Rep. Susan Holmes—(P) 404.656.0178 (Email) Susan.Holmes@house.ga.gov