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Sen. Russ Goodman Appointed to Senate Study Committees on Farmland Preservation and Forest Innovation

ATLANTA (May 30, 2024) — Sen. Russ Goodman (R–Cogdell) has been appointed to the Senate Study Committee on the Preservation of Georgia’s Farmlands and the Senate Advancing Forest Innovation in Georgia Study Committee. These appointments highlight the Senate’s focus on sustaining Georgia’s agricultural heritage and advancing innovative practices in forestry.

The Senate Study Committee on the Preservation of Georgia’s Farmlands, chaired by Sen. Billy Hickman (R–Statesboro), will focus on reviewing and recommending policies to protect and sustain the state’s valuable agricultural lands. The Senate Advancing Forest Innovation in Georgia Study Committee, chaired by Sen. John F. Kennedy (R–Macon), will explore new technologies and practices in forestry to promote sustainable development and economic growth. As a member of both committees, Sen. Goodman will contribute his extensive knowledge and experience both as a farmer and Chairman of the standing Senate Committee on Agriculture and Consumer Affairs.

Sen. Goodman expressed his enthusiasm for these appointments, stating, “As a farmer, I know firsthand the challenges and rewards of working the land. I’m truly honored to join these committees and bring my experience to the table. Preserving our farmlands is not just about maintaining our heritage—it’s about ensuring a sustainable future for the next generation. And when it comes to forestry, innovation is key to balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship. I’m grateful to Lt. Governor Burt Jones for prioritizing these vital issues and giving me the chance to contribute. I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues to make a lasting impact on our state’s agriculture and forestry sectors.”

Sen. Goodman brings a wealth of knowledge to these roles, with his background as an agriculturalist and his leadership as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Consumer Affairs. The committee members are recognized experts in their fields, bringing diverse and informed perspectives to the discussions.

You can find more information about the committees’ work and upcoming meetings here.

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Sen. Russ Goodman serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Consumer Affairs. He represents Senate District 8 which includes Atkinson, Clinch, Echols, Lanier, Lowndes and Pierce Counties and a large portion of Ware County. He may be reached at 404.656.7454 or at russ.goodman@senate.ga.gov

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Sen. Bo Hatchett Appointed to Senate Study Committee on Access to Affordable Child Care

ATLANTA (May 30, 2024) — Sen. Bo Hatchett (R–Cornelia) has been appointed to serve on the Senate Study Committee on Access to Affordable Child Care. The committee, established by Senate Resolution 471 will address the pressing issue of child care affordability and accessibility in Georgia.

Sen. Hatchett, a dedicated advocate for family and community support, brings a wealth of experience as the Vice-Chairman of the standing Senate Committee on Children and Families. His appointment to the committee underscores his leadership and dedication to finding practical solutions for some of the state’s most pressing challenges.

“It’s an honor to be appointed to serve on the Senate Study Committee on Access to Affordable Child Care,” said Sen. Hatchett. “I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Lt. Governor Burt Jones for this opportunity. Ensuring that all families in Georgia have access to affordable and quality child care is a critical issue that impacts our state’s economic health and the future of our children. I look forward to working with my colleagues on this committee to develop actionable recommendations that will make a meaningful difference in the lives of Georgia’s families.”

The Senate Study Committee on Access to Affordable Child Care will convene to examine current child care costs, accessibility barriers and potential policy solutions. The committee will engage with experts, stakeholders, and community members to gather insights and develop strategies to improve child care affordability across Georgia.

You can find more information regarding this study committee here.

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Sen. Bo Hatchett serves as a Governor’s Administration Floor Leader. He represents the 50th Senate District which includes Banks, Franklin, Habersham, Rabun, Stephens and Towns County and portions of Hall, Jackson, and White counties. He can be reached by phone at 404.651.7745 or by email at bo.hatchett@senate.ga.gov.

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President Pro Tempore John F. Kennedy to Lead Senate Advancing Forest Innovation in Georgia Study Committee

ATLANTA (May 30, 2024) — President Pro Tempore John F. Kennedy (R–Macon) has been appointed to Chair the Senate Advancing Forest Innovation in Georgia Study Committee, in accordance with Senate Resolution 786. The committee will include Sen. Russ Goodman (R–Cogdell), Sen. Larry Walker III (R–Perry), Sen. Sonya Halpern (D–Atlanta), Sen. Frank Ginn (R–Danielsville), and Senate Majority Leader Steve Gooch (R–Dahlonega).

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Sen. John Albers Appointed to Senate Study Committees on Artificial Intelligence and the Welfare of All Individuals in Georgia’s Corrections Facilities

ATLANTA (May 28, 2024) — Sen. John Albers (R–Roswell) has been appointed to the Senate Study Committee on Artificial Intelligence, where he will serve as Chair, and to the Senate Supporting Safety and Welfare of All Individuals in Department of Corrections Study Committee. These appointments were made by Lt. Governor Burt Jones, emphasizing the importance of these critical areas during the interim between legislative sessions.

The Senate Study Committee on Artificial Intelligence will focus on reviewing current policies and practices related to the development and implementation of AI technologies within the state. As Chair, Sen. Albers will lead the committee in exploring innovative solutions and ensuring responsible AI governance to benefit all Georgians.

Simultaneously, the Senate Supporting Safety and Welfare of All Individuals in Department of Corrections Study Committee will evaluate the existing measures within the Department of Corrections. This committee aims to enhance the safety and well-being of individuals within Georgia’s correctional system, ensuring that policies are both humane and effective.

Sen. Albers expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming work, stating, “I’m thrilled to lead the Senate Study Committee on Artificial Intelligence and to contribute to the important discussions on the welfare of those within our state corrections facilities. These committees will tackle critical issues that have far-reaching implications for our state. I am deeply grateful to Lt. Governor Burt Jones for recognizing the importance of these topics and for giving us the opportunity to make a significant impact. Together, my Senate colleagues and I will work diligently to explore fresh perspectives from each of these areas as we prepare to craft legislation during the 2025 Legislative Session.”

Sen. Albers brings extensive experience to these roles, currently serving as the Chair of the Standing Senate Committee on Public Safety. His leadership and insights will be invaluable as the committees undertake their comprehensive reviews. The appointed members are recognized experts in their fields, bringing diverse and knowledgeable perspectives to the discussions.

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Sen. John Albers serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Safety. He represents the 56th Senate District which includes portions of Cherokee, Cobb and North Fulton counties. He may be reached at his office at 404.463.8055 or by email at john.albers@senate.ga.gov

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Sen. Brian Strickland Celebrates Funding Secured for Upgrades at T.M. “Mort” Ewing Newton County Agricultural Center

ATLANTA (May 15, 2024) — In a significant development for agricultural education and outreach in Georgia, the T.M. “Mort” Ewing Newton County Agricultural Center is set to receive a substantial boost of $500,000.00 in funding, obtained through the dedicated efforts of Sen. Brian Strickland (R–McDonough) and incorporated into the Amended Fiscal Year 2024 budget signed by Governor Brian P. Kemp last week. This allocation marks a pivotal moment for the advancement of agricultural initiatives in the region.

Expressing enthusiasm for the investment, Sen. Strickland, remarked, “I am proud of our continued efforts to invest in educating the next generation about the importance of agriculture in our state. Every year thousands of people experience this industry directly through our FFA Camp and the Newton County Agricultural Center and, for many, this is the only first-hand experience they get with Georgia’s number one industry. This funding continues to show our commitment at the state level to these facilities and to the work being done on the ground right here in Newton County.”

Named in honor of Mort Ewing, a distinguished figure in Georgia’s agricultural landscape, the center holds deep significance for the community. Ewing, reflecting on the impact of his time as a member of the National FFA Organization, shared, “I joined the FFA Organization 72 years ago when I started the 9th grade. It was one of the best decisions of my lifetime. I have remained active in the organization as an FFA alumni member. The FFA organization and the State FFA Camp still mean a lot to me as a Newton County farmer. I am very pleased Senator Strickland has secured some additional funding for the Newton County Agricultural Center. We will utilize the funds to enhance the services available through the Center.”

Additionally, Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture, Tyler Harper, lauded the allocation, stating, “Investing in the next generation of leaders in our state is vital to ensure the continued success of Georgia’s #1 industry and our state as a whole, and I’m grateful for the work and commitment of Senator Strickland and the entire General Assembly to do just that. This investment in Newton County will go a long way to ensure the success of agriculture and the students utilizing these facilities, and it’s critical that we continue making investments in our agricultural facilities like this one that positively impact thousands of Georgia students every year. I look forward to continuing our work with Sen. Strickland and the General Assembly to advance Georgia agriculture and expand opportunities in agriculture for students across Georgia.”

The infusion of funds will facilitate essential upgrades and expansions at the Newton County Agricultural Center, ensuring its continued role as a hub for agricultural education, innovation, and community engagement.

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Sen. Brian Strickland serves as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Judiciary. He represents the 17th Senate District which includes all of Morgan and portions of Henry, Newton and Walton County. Sen. Strickland may be reached by phone at 404.463.6598 or by email at brian.strickland@senate.ga.gov.