Session Begins
Greetings dear friends! Monday, Jan. 8 brought the first of 40 legislative days as we gathered on Capitol Hill to begin the 2018 session. It was great catching up with my colleagues from around Georgia as we began our week in the house chamber.
Each New Year brings promise, hope and excitement! It also brings a new session, new issues and new debate. It is also important to note that any bills introduced during the 2017 session are still eligible for a floor vote in 2018. Therefor, we can expect hot topic items such as casino gaming and tax reform to make an appearance this session.
State of the State
Thursday, Jan. 11th, Gov. Deal gave his final State of the State address covering accomplishments from last year while highlighting hopes for the next. Governor Deal noted the progress we have made since his time in office where economic development, job growth and education are concerned. I am pleased to report that Georgia’s unemployment rate is down to 4.3%, which is the lowest it has been in 10 years!
Governor Deal also went on to outline his agenda for the upcoming year, including his state budget recommendations which we will work on for the remainder of the session.
State Budget
Tuesday, Jan. 16th marked the beginning of “budget week.” As always, before addressing any legislative action, the state budget will be our primary focus. We are constitutionally required to pass a balanced budget before adjourning session. As our state’s population continues to grow, so does the need for improved infrastructure.
We expect education, healthcare, public safety and transportation to remain at the top of our budget allocations. In the coming days we will work with the Appropriations Committee to determine how state funding should be spent. I will keep you up to date on the funding projects we have planned for our region!
Rural Legislation Reform
We pack a lot of debate into our 40 days on Capitol Hill! While I look forward to working in all areas to improve our beloved state, I am particularly excited about our ongoing rural revitalization efforts. As discussed in previous columns, the legislature will continue to focus on issues such as expanded broadband access in less populated areas, as well as, quality healthcare access.
Other issues will include, small business initiatives and possible tax incentives for certain areas. I look forward to working with fellow members in exploring which options will serve our rural communities best.
House Resolution 867
This session started off a bit differently in celebration of UGA playing in the National Championship! Day one, the House adopted House Resolution 867 recognizing Dan Corso and commending the Atlanta Football Host Committee for organizing this great event for our state. How fitting that the first time in history our state hosts the National Championship, that the Dawgs were there to play.
As many of you already know, Paul and I both attended the University Georgia. Paul also played football for the Dawgs, so needless to say, we are HUGE fans! Regardless of the outcome, it was an exciting game and it’s great to be a Georgia Bulldawg! I have no doubt that we will be back sooner than later.
As we make our way through the remainder of the legislative session, there will be no shortage of debate. Please make sure to contact me with questions, concerns or ideas regarding proposed bills. Also, be on the lookout for future columns as I work to keep you informed.
If you are in Atlanta, please come by to see us. We love seeing smiling faces from home. Thank you for allowing me to serve as it is an honor and true pleasure to do so!