From the Capitol . . .

By: Sen. Cecil Staton

ATLANTA (February 6, 2009) – The state Senate had another very productive week under the Gold Dome with 5 legislative days and a busy committee meeting schedule. I can assure you that there is an overwhelming sense of urgency as we sort through the state budget crisis and make these unfortunate but necessary cuts to balance the $2.2 billion shortfall in revenues. This year is not a time for partisan politics and I’m confident we will come together as one legislature to make our decisions financially responsible and beneficial for the state’s long-term growth and prosperity. Continue reading “From the Capitol . . .”

Senate Makes Historic Vote to Double Statewide Homestead Exemption

ATLANTA (February 6, 2009) – The Georgia State Senate today voted historically to double the statewide homestead exemption. Senate Bill 83 overwhelmingly passed out of the Senate by a 40-14 vote and will now go to the House.

Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers (R-Woodstock) introduced the bill that will amend the Homestead Exemption Act to increase the exemption from $2,000.00 to $4,000.00 with automatic future adjustments for inflation. Continue reading “Senate Makes Historic Vote to Double Statewide Homestead Exemption”

Senate Improves Transportation and Provides Property Tax Relief

Sen. Chip Pearson
Sen. Chip Pearson

By Sen. Chip Pearson
ATLANTA (February 6, 2009) – The Senate made great strides this week in bringing needed relief to Georgians on the road and at home. We successfully passed the most sweeping form of transportation legislation in Georgia history, and are also keeping property taxes low by passing a measure to fund the Homeowner’s Tax Relief Grants (HTRG) this year, and in addition, doubling the Homestead Tax Exemptions from $2000 to $4000.

Continue reading “Senate Improves Transportation and Provides Property Tax Relief”

Notes from the Senate

00heathheadshotbig2By Sen. Bill Heath
ATLANTA (February 6, 2009)—This week witnessed exponential efforts to support tax relief and transportation development which hit as two of Georgia’s most current and critical needs. I support these issues and have helped pass the legislation which will provide Georgians with some much needed relief. I also had the honor of introducing my pastor, Brother Herman Parker from the First Baptist Church of Bremen, as the chaplain of the day.

Continue reading “Notes from the Senate”