On January 12, senators and representatives flocked to the Gold Dome and gathered in their respective chambers to begin the first term of the 153rd Legislative Session. Every year, senators come together to discuss, vet and pass legislation that affects every Georgian. It is our job to ensure that Georgia remains the superb state it has always been. I am proud to represent you at the Capitol for another term.
I am honored to serve in the leadership as the Chief Deputy Whip as well Chairman of the State and Local Government Operations Committee, Vice-Chair of the Public Safety Committee, as the Secretary for the Finance Committee and as a member on the Appropriations Committee.
Gov. Nathan Deal delivered his annual “State of the State” address on Wednesday, January 14. He spoke inspiring words about our state’s prosperous recovery after the economic collapse. He reported that our state is strong and getting even stronger as each day passes. He mentioned Georgia’s status as the number one place to do business in the country, a recognition given by one of the nation’s premier real estate and economic development publications, ‘Site Selection Magazine’. With the relocation of Mercedes-Benz and Porsche America to Georgia on the horizon, it is apparent that this recognition was earned.
During the “State of the State,” Gov. Deal also unveiled his proposed budget plans for the upcoming fiscal year, focusing on key state priorities such as education, transportation funding and healthcare.
Legislators spent a week working with agencies to determine allocation of funds for the rest of Fiscal Year 2015 and preparing for Fiscal Year 2016. The Governor and state agencies delivered presentations and projections of how they suggest that budget funds be distributed. Gov. Deal proposed a $21.8 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2016. I will continue to update you as we go through the appropriations process.
The Legislative Session has been off to a quick start with more than 50 Senate Resolutions and Senate Bills having already been read on the Senate Floor. On January 26, SR 42 was presented to the General Assembly as we recognized members of the Georgia National Guard for their unwavering commitment to our nation’s freedom. This came at a very special time in my family’s life, as my oldest son, Will, left for basic training that same day. I cannot begin to express how proud I am of not only my son, but of all the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe at home.
In addition to supporting those who fight for our country overseas, I also strive to support the men and women in uniform who protect our lives at home. Too often fire fighters and police officers are harmed while on duty and I worked to sponsor SB 29 to protect them in the event that they cannot complete their duties due to injury caused during their tenure.
I am looking forward to working with my Senate colleagues to pass sound legislation that solidifies Georgia’s reputation as pro-business, pro-education and pro-family. Please feel free to contact my office at any time to talk about pending legislation or address other concerns in our district – my door and phone lines are always open!
to your business!