ATLANTA (April 28, 2023) | Yesterday, Governor Brian P. Kemp signed Senate Bill 3 into law. Sponsored by Sen. John Albers (R – Roswell), this measure requires the Department of Administrative Services to frequently assess a number of educational and experience requirements necessary for employment for state entities.
“Georgia remains the number one state in the nation in which to do business. However, we would not have been able to uphold this standard for nine consecutive years if it weren’t for the hardworking men and women of Georgia’s workforce. This legislation aims to provide additional support for individuals seeking employment in the workforce because every Georgian should have the ability earn a living to support themselves, their children, and their families. Georgia’s state departments have seen a high turnover rate, losing employees to the private sector for quite some time,” said Sen. Albers. “With this statute, we can best determine if current practices are consistent with the needs of the position and don’t prevent the best and brightest from entering the workforce.”
SB 3 was a legislative priority for Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, and the Senate Republican caucus voted to make it a caucus priority with the goal of understanding these challenges.
“I want to thank Senator Albers for his leadership on this priority,” said Lt. Governor Burt Jones. “Expanding Georgia’s workforce across all industries is critical and will remain a top priority for the foreseeable future. Senate Bill 3 is a key first step to increase Georgia’s workforce by removing barriers and enabling willing and able Georgians to gain employment.”
“Strengthening Georgia’s workforce is a top priority for Senate leadership,” said Majority Leader Sen. Steve Gooch (R – Dahlonega). “Lt. Governor Burt Jones has consistently led on this issue, and I’m proud of the work we have accomplished here. I want to thank Sen. Albers for his dedication to ensuring our state is equipped with the proper resources and personnel to be successful while expanding opportunities for Georgia’s citizens.”
The bill received bipartisan support from both chambers throughout the legislative process during the 2023 Georgia Legislative Session.
You can read the full text of SB 3 here.
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Sen. Steve Gooch serves as Senate Majority Leader. He represents the 51st Senate District which includes Dawson, Fannin, Gilmer, Lumpkin, Union and Pickens County as well as portions of White County. He may be reached at 404.656.9221 or via email at steve.gooch@senate.ga.gov
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