ATLANTA (February 6, 2014) | Senate Bill 288, a bill preventing Georgia public schools from interacting with any interscholastic sports body that does not release annual financial statements, passed the Georgia Senate today by a vote of 54 to 0. Sen. Charlie Bethel (R – Dalton) sponsored the bill to ensure Georgia students participate in extra-curricular athletics in a transparent environment.
“These organizations are subsidized by taxpayers who deserve to know how these dollars are being used,” said Sen. Bethel. “By requiring the release of comprehensive annual financial reports, we are increasing the level of accountability for all involved in the management of student athletic activities.”
SB 288 amends current law to define ‘athletic association’ as a body that governs, writes rules, sanctions or organizes interscholastic athletic events in which Georgia public schools participate. In order for an athletic association to participate in an interscholastic event, SB 288 requires the annual distribution of the previous year’s financial report to all members. The report must cover all activities and include a summary of assets, liabilities, incomes and operating expenses.
SB 288 now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 6, 2014
Contact:
Jennifer Yarber, Director
jennifer.yarber@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028