After a week in recess to analyze Governor Deal’s budget recommendations for the Amended FY13 Budget and FY14 Budget, we’ve reconvened our business in the Senate Chamber. With nine legislative days behind us, we are working hard to fulfill the needs of our constituents by filing new legislation and beginning the committee process.
On Jan. 29, a series of local bills, which I sponsored, passed the Senate including SB25, SB26, SB27, SB29, SB30, SB31 and SB32. If approved by both chambers, these bills would establish non-partisan municipal elections for the Macon-Bibb consolidated government. These elections will include the elected offices of mayor, county coroner, probate judge, school board, board of commissioners, the Macon-Bibb County Water and Sewage Authority and the Board of Education. I believe it is important for us to make every effort to hold non-partisan elections in Bibb-Macon County. These elections will help create a more informed electorate and ensure the most qualified individual has the opportunity to serve.
Legislative Action
Adjournment Resolution
House Resolution 50 was adopted to set the legislative calendar through March 5, 2013 – legislative day 29. Please access the resolution online to view the Georgia General Assembly’s calendar here.
National Guard Day
January 29 was recognized as National Guard Day at the Georgia State Capitol though Senate Resolution 48. The National Guard received a standing ovation for their service, bravery and sacrifice for our country.
Georgia Arts Advocacy Day
January 29 was also Arts Day at the Georgia State Capitol. Exhibits focused on the positive economic impact of the arts as well as the many ways in which the arts attract tourism dollars to Georgia. Representatives were on hand to ask questions, share information, and speak with citizens about the importance of arts, culture, and arts education in Georgia.
GEDA Visits State Capitol
The Georgia Economic Development Association (GEDA) was honored with Senate Resolution 49 on January 30. GEDA chair JoAnne Lewis said, “On behalf of the Georgia Economic Development Association, we’re excited to be sharing 50 years of economic development in Georgia. We pledge on behalf of our organization to keep moving jobs and businesses into our state and we look forward to continuing our work with you.”
U.S.S. Georgia Day
The Senate passed SR 65 on Wednesday to designate Jan. 30 as U.S.S. Georgia Day at the Capitol. The Resolution recognized the Captain and crew members for their life of service to our nation and their submarine. “I’m truly blessed to serve among the best men and women—yes, women—in the country,” said Cpt.Rhett Jaehn.
Tourism and Hospitality Day
Senate Resolution 44 was adopted on Tuesday to mark January 29 as Georgia Tourism and Hospitality Day at the Capitol. Representatives of Georgia’s state parks, historic sites and other tourism organizations showcased Georgia’s booming tourism industry through promotional material on Georgia’s many attractions.
For additional information regarding a specific piece of legislation, you may access the Georgia General Assembly website at http://www.legis.ga.gov/.
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Sen. Cecil Staton serves as Senate Majority Whip. He represents the 18th Senate District, which includes portions of Bibb, Crawford, Houston, Monroe, Peach, and Upson counties. He may be reached at 404.656.5039 or by email at cecil.staton@senate.state.gov
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