Work Continues Throughout the Year

One of the most common questions I receive out of session is, “what do you do the rest of the year?”

While we may not be on Capitol Hill year-round like our Federal counterparts, our work continues over the remaining nine months, after the completion of our 40-day session. April through December we focus our efforts on constituent services, touring our districts, as well as study committee work.

Much like we are appointed to standing committees every two-year election cycle, many of us are also appointed to serve on Study Committees. Study Committees focus on research regarding specific areas where our state lacks. 2017 boasts 20 total groups between House and Senate Study Committees, as well as, Joint Committees and working groups.

Study committees are put in place to further discuss, research and hear expert opinion on the subject area that may be affected by a piece of legislation. Further, these committees play a large role in helping to eliminate unintended consequences of legislation we pass during session. Depending on the subject matter, committees are formed separately in the House and Senate.

At times, joint study committees are put in place and member representatives from each respective chamber will participate in the discussion. These committees tackle complex issues and are often the “make it” or “break it” moment for future legislation. 2017 committees are discussing a number of pressing issues from tax reform and healthcare to cyber technology education.

For a full listing of study committees, you can visit the Georgia General Assembly website. Committee meetings are open to the public and I encourage you to attend if there is a subject you are interested in learning more about!

One Study Committee that really excites me is the newly formed House Rural Development Council. The council will look at ways of improving our rural economy by focusing on education, infrastructure needs, access to health care and economic growth incentives. Initial report of findings and recommendations are due by the end of this year and a follow-up report by the end of 2018.

Much of the legislation that we will vote on in regards to rural Georgia will stem directly from this Council. Therefore, it is important for us to stay informed and involved! Fortunately, we all have the opportunity to watch these meetings through live streaming as they happen across our state.

You can visit the General Assembly site and click on House Study committees for more information in regards to meeting times, locations and live streaming availability. You will also find video recording archives of past meetings.

The last few months, I have had a great time making my way around the district! I truly enjoy attending events and appreciate the invitations that many of you have extended. I will continue to keep you updated on major happenings within state politics and in the meantime, if you need anything at all, please feel free to reach out to me.

As always, it is an honor to work on your behalf and a joy to do so. Paul and I look forward to seeing you soon, if we have not already! May God bless each and every one of you and may he continue to bless our district and state.