ATLANTA (June 13, 2011) – Sen. Jim Butterworth (R-Demorest) was recently presented with the distinguished 2011 Democracy Award from Common Cause Georgia. This award is given annually to a group of legislators, journalists, and community activists who uphold the organizations ideals of an open and accountable government.
“It is indeed a great honor to receive this prestigious award from such a worthwhile organization,” said Sen. Butterworth. “ Common Cause Georgia strives to bring government to the people and encourages a higher level of understanding and participation in local and state government. I will continue to advocate for the highest level of openness and transparency in government. By electing us to office, our constituents have placed in us their trust and should be confident that we are representing their best interest at the State Capitol.”
“At a time when many state leaders will not step up to the plate and take on ethic reform, Senator Butterworth committed to closing a big transparency loophole in Georgia law. He introduced SB 163 which would have banned anonymous political communication and required disclosure of those that pay for the ad. Senator Butterworth worked hard to push this important legislation through the Senate and the House, but unfortunately the bill was vetoed. Nevertheless, Senator Butterworth committed to championing the effort, and for that, we honor him with a 2011 Democracy Award,” said William Perry, Executive Director of Common Cause Georgia.
Common Cause Georgia is a non-profit, non-partisan citizens’ lobby organization. They believe that by banding together, citizens can make a difference. By throwing a spotlight on issues that affect all Georgians, Common Cause Georgia strengthens public participation and to ensure that the political process serves the public interest, rather than the special interests. They seek to make public officials and public institutions accountable and responsive to citizens. Common Cause Georgia has more than 3,000 members and supporters across the state. Common Cause Georgia is a state chapter of the national Common Cause organization.
Sen. Jim Butterworth serves as chairman of the Higher Education Committee. He represents the 50th Senate District which includes Towns, Rabun, Habersham, Stephens, Banks, Franklin, and Hart counties along with a portion of White County. He can be reached by phone at 404.651.7738 or by email at jim.butterworth@senate.ga.gov.
Release
For Immediate Release:
June 13, 2011
For Information Contact:
Natalie Strong, Director
Katie Wright, Deputy Director
katie.wright@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028