Senator Albers: Week Eleven Under the Gold Dome
Monday, March 25, 2024
As the 2024 Legislative Session nears its conclusion, the Georgia Senate is in the midst of its final days, with only one week left to address legislative matters. This last week marks the culmination of our collective efforts as a caucus and as individual legislators.
I’m pleased to announce the passage of House Bill 935, widely recognized as the “Back the Blue Act.” This measure establishes the Back the Blue Fund, providing bonuses to certified peace officers across Georgia. I stand in unwavering support of our law enforcement personnel and commend the Republican caucus for their backing of this vital legislation.
Furthermore, the Georgia Senate has taken significant steps regarding various tax-related proposals such as House Bill 1015, a priority initiative for Governor Brian P. Kemp. This bill reduces the income tax rate from 5.49% to 5.39%, thereby promoting economic growth and prosperity. HB 1015 will enhance our economic landscape, ensuring Georgia remains a premier destination for business ventures.
We have also taken further action against individuals seeking to harm Georgia communities and countries aiming to undermine our national security. Senate Republicans proudly passed two more of my bills this week — House Bill 301 and House Bill 1105 — reaffirming our commitment to safety across all Georgia communities. HB 301 enables residents to seek declaratory judgments against local governments that enact dangerous immigration sanctuary policies, while HB 1105 mandates local law enforcement cooperation with federal authorities in enforcing immigration laws and provides for verification procedures relating to the immigration status of inmates. Ensuring safety throughout Georgia communities is a bedrock for our continued economic and social prosperity. I am confident that our state will continue to address the illegal immigration crisis head on, and we stand ready to work with the federal government when they decide to do the same.
Furthermore, Senate Republicans passed multiple pieces of legislation specifically targeting foreign adversaries seeking to compromise our national security and financial stability. Earlier this week, we passed House Bill 185, which mandates Georgia’s University System to report certain funding received from foreign adversaries. Additionally, Senate Republicans were pleased to see Georgia’s House of Representatives pass Senate Bill 420, which prohibits dangerous foreign entities from acquiring land near secure areas, including military bases. As global security evolves, Georgia must remain prepared to adapt accordingly.
I am also proud to announce that my legislative priorities are continuing to move in the House chamber. I am glad to see that the House of Representatives has passed Senate Bill 328, which establishes the Peace Officers Annuity and Benefit Fund. Additionally, the House passed Senate Bill 472, a bill titled the “Combating Organized Retail Crime Act.” The bills passed unanimously in both the House and the Senate and will now go to Governor Brian P. Kemp’s desk for a signature.
Each week, constituents, associations and organizations alike come to the Capitol to visit the Senate chamber. Senate members were honored to welcome the family and friends of Laken Riley, a former UGA student who was tragically murdered by an illegal immigrant who used our nation’s porous federal immigration policy to cause harm. I continue to pray for the family and friends of Laken, the Athens community and our state as we grieve this unimaginable and completely unnecessary loss.
I was personally honored to recognize two Senate doctors this week. Dr. Brett Cannon is a doctor of medicine and emergency medicine specialist and Dr. Luke Lathrop is an emergency physician at WellStar. These individuals are critical members of our healthcare community, and I enjoyed welcoming them to the chamber this week.
Please never hesitate to contact my office if I can assist with legislative matters as the 2024 Legislative Session enters its final week.
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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 [email protected]