ATLANTA– (January 26, 2009) State Sen. John Douglas (R-Social Circle) has recently been appointed co-chairman to the newly-formed National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL) Military Sustainability Task Force. The purpose of the new task force is to examine and assist in military-community relations and create policy to improve the health and well-being of veterans.
“I am overwhelmed at the support I’ve received from my fellow elected officials around the country,” Sen. Douglas, who is chairman of the Senate Veterans, Military and Homeland Security Committee, said. “I am honored to lead this task force to ensure the needs of our country’s veterans are met.”
As co-chair of the Task Force with Texas State Sen. Leticia Van De Putte (D-Austin), Douglas will meet with his colleagues to cover issues such as: development near military installations; military-community partnerships to respond to mission change; veteran hiring and procurement preferences; mental health, substance abuse and family relationships facing returning veterans; and benefits for military personnel, veterans and their dependents. Members of the Task-Force will meet in conjunction with scheduled NCSL meetings and are expected to serve for two years.
Before his election to the Georgia Senate in 2004, Douglas served in the U.S. Army from 1977-1994. He also currently serves as a field representative of the Peace Officers Association of Georgia and is an active member in the Newton County GOP and American Legion Post 32.
“As a veteran, I have an active interest in the welfare of our country’s service men and women and their families,” Sen. Douglas added.
The National Conference of State Legislators is a bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the nation’s 50 states, its commonwealths and territories. NCSL provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues. The Conference is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of state governments before Congress and federal agencies.
Sen. John Douglas serves as Chairman of the Veterans, Military and Homeland Security Committee. He represents the 17th Senate District which includes Newton County and portions of Henry, Rockdale, Spalding and Walton counties. He may be reached by phone at 404.656.0503 or by e-mail at john.douglas@senate.ga.gov.
Press Release
For Immediate Release:
January 26, 2009
For Information Contact:
Raegan Weber,Director
Ravae Graham, Communications Specialist
ravae.graham@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028