As we continue to work through the budget crisis in Georgia, one thing is for certain: We must concentrate on economic development in Georgia to get the thousands of Georgians back to work by creating jobs. Job creation is a key component to turning around this economy and moving Georgia forward as the Empire State of the South.
Sen. Smith named Legislator of the Year for Health Care Reform Efforts
ATLANTA (March 5, 2010) – Sen. Preston Smith (R-Rome) has been named the 2010 Legislator of the Year by the Georgia Society of Ambulatory Surgery Centers (GSASC) for his work this session to reform Georgia’s health care system using consumer and patient-focused solutions. Smith was honored during the center’s semi-annual meeting in Atlanta, which brings together professionals in ambulatory surgery centers from both Georgia and South Carolina.
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South Georgia at the State Capitol
By State Sen. Greg Goggans
The 2011 Budget and Higher Education
I want to thank all my constituents for your phone calls, letters, and emails to my office on your concerns for our current budget crisis, especially when it comes to education funding. As the General Assembly is considering ways to fill over $1 billion in revenue shortfalls, I share your concern for the investment into education. With over 60 percent of revenues going toward our schools (K-12 and the Board of Regents), it is essential we find ways to reduce spending without sacrificing the quality of our children’s education. Continue reading “South Georgia at the State Capitol”
A Lean Economy calls for a Lean Budget
By Sen. Chip Pearson
ATLANTA (March 5, 2010) – To cope with a sluggish economy and plummeting revenues, Georgia’s state government needs a major lifestyle change. We’re putting our budget on a lean diet of essential spending by concentrating funding in the vital areas of government, such as education, public safety and transportation.
Notes from the Georgia Senate
By Sen. Don Thomas
As my colleagues and I near the completion of our two week recess, I would like to take an opportunity to update you on what has been going on here at the State Capitol. By now, I am sure you are aware of the dire situation our state budget is facing. As we continue to experience the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, our revenues have declined month after month. We have used this necessary break from the normal legislative process so that we can dedicate a sufficient amount of time to examining every avenue state funds are appropriated to. Continue reading “Notes from the Georgia Senate”