Sen. Jesse Stone: Week 2 – News From Under the Gold Dome

Your Georgia Desk

Week 2: News From Under the Gold Dome

The General Assembly reconvened for week 2 of the 2015 Session after a week of budget hearings which I attended. Some of the highlights of the week included the unveiling of a House proposal for discussing the future of transportation funding. I am sure this will stimulate discussion, and we will be hearing from other quarters in the upcoming weeks.

In a unanimous bi-partisan vote, the Senate passed SB1, “Ava’s Law”, to extend insurance coverage to early treatment of autism. At a modest cost to insurers (under $5 per year per insured family), young lives can realize their potential, and the taxpayers of Georgia can save millions of dollars. If you support this bill, please contact your State Representatives to encourage the House to pass.

The committees that I serve on began meeting and adopting rules for the next 2 years. The Education Committee on my motion passed SB 2 which broadens joint enrollment programs. It allows local school systems to permit students to satisfy high school graduation requirements for 11th and 12th grades by successfully completing 2 year degree studies at community colleges and technical schools. If this passes the legislature, students will be energized to complete their education and enter a career pathway.

I dropped a bill this week, SB 65, updating what is known as the “wildcard” bankruptcy exemption (which has not been adjusted in 25 years) by implementing the recommendations of a Senate Study Committee.

This week, I met with representatives of the Humane Society to discuss the cost of impoundment; and also with prosecutors to discuss body cameras and no-knock rules.

Several presentations of interest on the senate floor this week included recognizing the Georgia National Guard, the 275th anniversary of Bethesda Academy, and the Atlanta Hawks (and Dominique Wilkins).

It was great seeing folks from the District, including economic developers from Jenkins, Johnson, Emanuel, and Richmond Counties. Johnson County was recognized with a Plan First award. Miss Ivey Rowland from Wrightsville had a busy day as the only page in the Senate. I enjoyed visiting with members of the Interfaith Coalition and other churches from the Augusta area.

It is an honor serving the people of the 23rd Senatorial District. You may contact my office by calling (404) 463-1314 or by sending me an email to jesse.stone@senate.ga.gov.