ATLANTA (Mar. 26, 2010) – The Georgia Senate overwhelmingly joined Sen. Hardie Davis (D-Augusta) Friday in support of two important pieces of legislation authored by the Augusta legislator. Davis’ bills focused on ending the state-run Georgia Golf Hall of Fame Authority (Senate Bill 449) and improving oversized vehicle safety on Georgia’s roads (Senate Bill 526).
“I want to thank my fellow Senators for helping me pass common-sense legislation aimed to help our local community and the people of Georgia,” said Davis. “With the Golf Hall of Fame Authority removed, the state can save burdensome operating costs for this Hall of Fame and Augusta can move forward utilizing the property to our best interests and hopefully turn it into an important asset to our area and its residents.”
Senate Bill 449 would abolish the state authority which oversees operation of the Golf Hall of Fame in Augusta, alleviating the state government from having to maintain and upkeep the property. Davis mentioned the property has been largely unused for the last 4 years and allowing the city of Augusta to assume control over the Hall of Fame site would give the best chance to find a long-term solution in the use of the property.
SB 526 brings Georgia code in line with federal safety guidelines relating to large transport vehicles traveling on public roads. Davis’ measure would add larger warning flags to oversized vehicles, increase penalties for violators of oversized vehicle safety violations, and require the Department of Driver Safety to establish training and certification programs for operators of oversized vehicles.
The bill also enacts policy to modernize crosswalk technology to increase safety for pedestrians and drivers.
“Providing safe and secure roads for Georgia citizens and its guests should always be a top priority for your elected officials and I am pleased the Senate acted to help protect drivers all around the state,” said Davis.
SB 449 was approved 42 to 4 and SB 493 passed by a 49 to 1 vote. Both measures now move to the Georgia House of Representatives for consideration.
Sen. Hardie Davis represents the 22nd Senate District which includes Richmond County. He may be reached at 404.656.0340 or via e-mail at hardie.davis@senate.ga.gov.
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
March 26, 2010
For Information Contact:
Matt Colvin, Broadcast Specialist
matthew.colvin@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028