By Sen. Bill Hamrick
One of the most significant aspects of being a state lawmaker is our ability to produce change. We can create laws that take initiative and create new opportunities or we can mend the problems of our state. Sadly, Georgia and much of the nation have recently been exposed to a serious problem and it is time for the government to step in and prevent further pain to the family of a crime victim. As many of you know, Hustler, a controversial adult magazine, requested copies of information through the Georgia Open Records Act relating to the January 2008 murder of Meredith Emerson.
Meredith, a native of Buford and a University of Georgia graduate was abducted while hiking on the Appalachian Trail in North Georgia. She was then brutally murdered. Sadly, we cannot undo the damage and hurt caused by such a horrendous criminal act but when Hustler requested the crime scene photos of Meredith’s murder, we knew we must do everything in our power to protect her and her family from further pain.
The release of the photos is an unquestionable offence to Meredith and to her family. State lawmakers reacted with swift force to generate and pass a law that will block the release of crime scene photos that depict mutilated bodies and/or nude bodies.
This legislation, House Bill 1322 is also known as the Meredith Emerson Memorial Privacy Act. It is an honor to carry HB 1322 in Meredith’s honor, it is a travesty that legislation like this is even necessary. The privacy of a family grieving over such a traumatic loss of a loved one should be sacred and untouchable, especially by an adult magazine that could use the photos for inappropriate purposes.
We are nearing the end of session when there is a constant stream of legislation in committee meetings and on the Senate floor. I will keep you updated on major legislation as we work to make Georgia a better state. As always, I am proud to serve as your state senator and will continue to work on your behalf throughout the remainder of session and the year. Please continue to contact me with your concerns and questions at either 404.656.0036 or bill.hamrick@senate.ga.gov.
Sen. Bill Hamrick serves as Chairman of the Banking and Financial Institutions Committee. He represents the 30th Senate District which includes portions of Carroll, Douglas, and Paulding counties. He may be reached at 404.656.0036 or via e-mail at bill.hamrick@senate.ga.gov.
COLUMN
For Immediate Release:
March 26, 2010
For Information Contact:
Natalie Strong, Deputy Director
Katie Wright, Communications Associate
katie.wright@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028