ATLANTA, GA (January 29, 2009) — The joint Senate and House Commission on Sexual Exploitation of Minors announced their legislative recommendations for the 2009 General Assembly today during a press conference at the Capitol. Three potential pieces of legislation that have emerged from the study committee are to implement a surcharge on the entrance into an adult entertainment business, changing the age of erotic dancers from a minimum age of 18 to 21 and to require proof of age, and tie enforcement to licensing regulations. Continue reading “Joint Commission on Sexual Exploitation of Minors Announces Legislative Recommendations for 2009”
Sen. Pearson Honors Distinguished Georgia War Veteran in Senate Chamber
ATLANTA (January 30, 2009) — The State Senate paused today during its daily business to honor an exceptional Georgian who has dedicated his life to serving his country. Sen. Chip Pearson (R-Dawsonville) presented Dr. Joseph Lazzarini with a Senate Resolution officially commending him for his 20 years of military service, in which he served in the Army during World War II, as well as the Navy and the Air Force.
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Transportation and Tourism Highlight of the Week
By Sen. Chip Pearson
ATLANTA (January 30, 2009) – Session is now officially in full swing as lawmakers filed key bills this week. Committees are gearing up to work out the details of assigned legislation, an important part of the legislative process where each bill is carefully examined and revised to be most effective.
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The People’s Business
By President Pro Tempore Tommie Williams
January 30, 2009
The Senate returned to session this week with all eyes and ears on the first bills and resolutions of the session. Most notable were bills on transportation, zero-based budgeting, and tougher restrictions for metal theft crimes. However, the two major issues on everyone’s mind were the Homeowner Tax Relief Grant (HTRG) funding and capping property taxes.
Senator Rogers Authors the Taxpayer Protection Amendment
ATLANTA (January 30, 2009) – Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers today introduced Senate Resolution 1, The Taxpayer Protection Amendment, which would limit the spending of any future budget surpluses. The measure requires any budget surplus first go to fund increases in student enrollment and then be placed into the state reserve fund. If the state reserve fund were to reach 10% of the previous year budget, surplus funds would then go to pay off state debt or be returned to the taxpayers.
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