Sen. John Albers Applauds Senate’s Passage of HB 808

On Tuesday, Mar. 26th, House Bill 808 garnered unanimous approval from members of the Georgia Senate. Carried in the Senate by Sen. John Albers (R–Roswell), the bill aims to alleviate tax burdens on small businesses in Georgia. Specifically, it seeks to reduce taxes on tangible personal property, items that have traditionally been subjected to annual taxation, posing financial strains on businesses across the state.

“Small businesses are the lifeblood of the Georgia economy,” said Sen. Albers. “I was so proud to work with NFIB and Rep. Cheokas to pass House Bill 808. This legislation lowers the tax burden, allowing our businesses to grow and thrive.”

Rep. Mike Cheokas (R–Americus), the bill’s sponsor, said, “This is a great day for business in Georgia. I want to thank Shaw Blackmon, chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, for his continued support and guidance in getting this measure passed in the Georgia House of Representatives. I am equally grateful to the hard work of Sen. John Albers for navigating H.B. 808 through the Senate. This was a team effort. I hope this will be the first step in reducing the burden of high taxes and prohibitive regulations that adversely affect businesses in Georgia.”

The timing of the legislation is noteworthy, coinciding with record levels of inflation and government expenditure. Sen. Albers underscored the bill’s relevance in addressing the escalating costs associated with business ownership and operation, attributing these challenges to federal fiscal policies.

NFIB State Director Hunter Loggins released the following statement yesterday on HB 808.

“House Bill 808 raises the threshold for paying this onerous tax,” Loggins said. “Small businesses already pay sale taxes on equipment, desks, and other property. The tangible personal property tax means they’re paying taxes on the same items year after year. Raising the threshold for paying this tax would ease the financial pressure on employers struggling with inflation that continues to drive up the cost of owning and operating a small business.

With the bill awaiting Governor Brian P. Kemp’s signature, its journey is far from over. Given its implications for the State’s Constitution, the measure will undergo scrutiny from Georgia citizens in November, as it necessitates a constitutional amendment for enactment.

You can find more information on HB 808 here.

Quotes sourced from the National Federation of Independent Businesses.

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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]

Senator Albers: Week Eleven Under the Gold Dome

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]

Senator Albers: Week Ten Under the Gold Dome

Senate members are diligently working both within their respective committees and on the Senate floor to propel House bills forward.

This week, Senate Republicans attended the Georgia Military Veterans Hall of Fame Unveiling Ceremony, paying tribute to Georgia’s veterans for their selfless sacrifices to our nation. Year after year, this profoundly moving ceremony is one of the highlights of session. I am proud to support legislative initiatives that positively impact those who have devoted their lives to protecting freedoms that we often take for granted.

I was honored to support House Bill 880, which furthers our commitment to enhancing Georgia’s workforce development by enabling military spouses to utilize an existing license in good standing from another state to secure employment at a Georgia business. Georgia’s military spouses often lose valuable working time between relocations. This game-changing legislation would expedite their journey into the workforce simultaneously easing their overall transition into our great state. Our military spouses sacrifice a great deal for our nation, and I am delighted to be in support of one of the strongest military spouse license bills in the nation.

Senate members also joined Governor Brian P. Kemp on the steps of the Capitol as he signed Senate Bill 332 into law. This legislation empowers the Prosecuting Attorneys Qualifications Commission to begin its crucial task of holding District Attorneys accountable if they fail to uphold the law. I take pride in our collective efforts as members of the General Assembly to advance this bill, confident that it will provide essential oversight.

In regards to our committee work, House Bill 1185 passed favorably out of the Senate Committee on Finance this week. This bill, aims to reduce inflated homestead taxes, thereby easing the burden on working Georgians. It offers our citizens the opportunity to reinvest in our economy now or save for the future.

I was also proud to see my legislative priorities continue to move in the House chamber. I am especially grateful to my House colleagues for their passage of Senate Bills 334 and 335. Titled the “Helping Firefighters Beat Cancer Act” and the “Safeguarding Adopted Children from Sexual Violence Act” respectively, these pieces of legislation will go to the Governor’s desk. I am proud to have authored and advocated for these bills, designed to protect our firefighters and some of our state’s most vulnerable – adopted children.

Each week under the Gold Dome, constituents, associations and organizations alike come to the Capitol to speak to legislators and host events with public officials. This week, the Senate Chamber had the honor of receiving Irish Minister Peter Burke. I was also personally honored to recognize pastor Jamie Dickens, as one of our Senate Chaplains of the Day. Mr. Dickens is the lead pastor at East Cobb Church and has touched the lives of many in the East Cobb community. I was thankful to have him in the Senate chamber this past Thursday.

Please never hesitate to contact my office if I can assist with legislative matters. I hope to see you under the Gold Dome soon as the 2024 Legislative Session enters its final weeks.

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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]

Senator Albers: Week Nine Under the Gold Dome

Following the conclusion of Crossover Day, which marked the final opportunity for Senate and House Bills to proceed through their respective chambers, the Senate is now dedicated to refining House bills as they advance through Senate committees. It has been a busy week in committees as we’ve deliberated legislation that seeks to amplify the voices and concerns of all Georgians.

Alongside the standing committees, we also dove back into Appropriations subcommittees to further discuss the budgetary needs of various state agencies. I was proud to participate in Appropriations Subcommittees on Criminal Justice & Public Safety and the Judiciary. Through these presentations and discussions, we were able to assist in the creation of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 budget. The FY 2025 budget was passed by the House on Thursday of this week and is one step closer to being signed by Gov. Brian P. Kemp.

While our focus this week has primarily been on vetting House legislation, I am proud to note the advancement of my legislative priorities within the House chamber. I am proud to report Senate Bill 334, the Helping Firefighters Beat Cancer Act passed the House and is now off to Governor Kemp to sign and become law. Senate Bill 473, known as the “Georgia Consumer Privacy Protection Act,” is working through the process. This bill straightforwardly aims to safeguard personal privacy. Lastly, Senate Bill 417, which aims to enhance the reporting of accidents involving elevators, escalators, and similar mechanisms, has successfully cleared the House Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security. Each of these bills has undergone extensive discussion in both chambers, and I remain committed to ensuring they receive a vote on the House floor.

On another significant note, this week saw the Georgia Senate exercise its subpoena powers to uncover crucial information pertaining to the allegations directed at the potential misconduct by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, the Georgia Senate took proactive measures to investigate these claims by listening to testimony before the Senate Special Committee on Investigations. I have full confidence in the leadership of committee chairman, Sen. Bill Cowsert, and I am proud of the valuable information we were able to glean this week for the benefit of the people of Georgia. As a legislative body, we are committed to utilizing every available resource to uncover the truth.

I’d also like to briefly highlight our Senate Page Program and make sure that your children don’t miss out on this great educational opportunity. This experience allows students to witness the legislative process firsthand. If you are or know of a student interested in becoming a Senate page during this year’s Legislative Session, you can sign up via this link.

Please never hesitate to contact my office if I can assist with legislative matters. I hope to see you under the Gold Dome soon as the 2024 Legislative Session enters its final weeks.

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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]

Senator Albers: Week Eight Under the Gold Dome

As the week progressed, legislators achieved a significant milestone with the completion of “Crossover Day” on February 29th. This day marks the deadline for all Senate bills to cross over to the House chamber and vice versa. Throughout the 2024 Legislative Session, Senate Republicans have experienced considerable success, advancing every priority defined by our caucus on to the House of Representatives.

I had the privilege of standing alongside my fellow majority caucus members to support various pieces of legislation aimed at protecting Georgians from domestic swatting and foreign threats. Notably, Senate Bill 421, which enhances penalties for false public alarms, commonly known as swatting, received unanimous approval from the Senate this week. This bipartisan effort underscores our commitment to holding swatters accountable to the fullest extent of the law. I commend my colleagues from both sides of the aisle for their dedication to defending the interests of Georgians. Next, the bill will undergo further consideration by the House.

The Georgia Senate also took decisive action to safeguard Georgians from foreign adversaries, with a particular focus on protecting our farmers. I proudly supported Senate Bill 420, which prohibits certain foreign individuals and entities from acquiring possessory interests in specific land. Georgia’s agricultural sector is the backbone of our economy, generating $83.6 billion annually and sustaining countless livelihoods. Given the threats posed by foreign actors, it’s imperative that we take proactive measures to safeguard our farmlands and critical areas, such as military bases.

In addition to advocating for our majority caucus’ priorities, I continued working on my individual legislative priorities. Specifically, I am proud to announce that the Senate body passed Senate Bill 417, a bill designed to improve the reporting of accidents relative to elevators, escalators and the like. The bill would also remove the faulty equipment from service. I am thankful for the Senate’s bipartisan support on this measure and look forward to updating you on its journey through the Georgia House of Representatives.

I also was honored to author and vote for Senate Bill 473, titled the Georgia Consumer Privacy Protection Act. It is critical, in our online-oriented marketplace, to protect the privacy of Georgia consumers. Lastly, I am pleased that the Senate body has passed Senate Bill 472, titled the “Combating Organized Retail Crime Act.” This key legislation will take additional steps to protect Georgians from criminals online as we maintain our title as the number one state to do business.

Our week began on a somber note following the tragic passing of Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student from Georgia. Laken’s untimely departure has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends and the Athens community. Laken was from the 56th District, and her parents currently reside there. What’s even more heartbreaking is that she was taken from us by an illegal immigrant who had been arrested and released back into our society multiple times. It’s alarming to think that, in Joe Biden’s America, every state has become vulnerable to crime, illegal substances and a lack of direction from federal leadership. Make no mistake, this tragedy could have been prevented had the Biden Administration not made reckless decisions to stop building a border wall and stop deporting illegal immigrants who wish us harm. The blood is on this presidential administration’s hands and it’s time for so-called leaders in Washington to stop making excuses and do their jobs. I will continue to fight against careless and dangerous immigration policies in the days ahead.

Please never hesitate to contact my office if I can assist with legislative matters. I hope to see you under the Gold Dome soon as the 2024 Legislative Session continues.

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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]

Senate Passes Legislation to Fight Against Human Trafficking in Georgia

Sen. Shawn Still (RJohns Creek) proudly carried critically important legislation focused on Human Trafficking and Sex Crimes pass with unanimous, bipartisan support on the Senate floor, Senate Bill 512 and Senate Resolution 616.

“Today’s passage of SB 512 and SR 616 marks a pivotal moment in our fight against human trafficking in Georgia,” said Sen. Still. “With the creation of the Victims of Human Trafficking Fund and Commission, we’re taking proactive measures to support and empower survivors, hold perpetrators accountable and prevent future exploitation. Together, we’re sending a clear message: in Georgia, we stand united against human trafficking, and we’ll continue working tirelessly to protect the most vulnerable among us.”

Legislation for SB 512 aims to create a Human Trafficking Victims Fund for people of all ages, whereas current laws only support minors with victim fund support. Further, it would shift the burden of accountability from minors convicted of misdemeanor sexual solicitation to the adult in respective scenarios. Lastly, this measure pushes Georgia hotels and motels to efficiently train their employees — specifically housekeeping and temporary employment agency staffers — by utilizing materials published by the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC). The CJCC training package includes educational material on identifying and reporting signs of human trafficking.

Also attached to SB 512 is a Human Trafficking Victims Fund constitutional amendment, SR 616, which would activate SB 512’s fund for victims to receive care, rehabilitative and social services for individuals in Georgia. This constitutional amendment would need to be approved by Georgia voters on the ballot in November.

Sen. John Albers (R–Roswell) applauded the passage of these measures, stating, “As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Safety, I am proud to see SB 512 and SR 616 pass with unanimous support. These critical measures represent a comprehensive approach to combating human trafficking in Georgia, addressing everything from victim support to law enforcement tools. I commend Sen. Shawn Still for his leadership on this important issue, and I’m confident that we will continue to make strides in safeguarding our state from these heinous crimes.”

“Both of these bills meet a crucial need in Georgia,” said Bob Rodgers, the President & CEO of Street Grace — a nationwide anti-trafficking organization that utilizes evidence-based demand reduction strategies to eradicate the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children through prevention, protection, policy and pursuit. “Traffickers will find it much harder to operate if we train hotel staff, adult survivors will have access to resources through the Fund, and accountability will be placed where it should be when it comes to the exploitation of minors—on the adult exploiter. I appreciate Sen. Still for his work on these measures.”

You can find more information on SB 512 here and more information on SR 616 here. These measures will now be sent to the Georgia House of Representatives for further consideration.

More information on the CJCC can be found here; and more information on Street Grace can be found here.

Senator Albers: Week Seven Under the Gold Dome

Week seven under the Gold Dome has concluded, and we’re swiftly approaching an important milestone known as “Crossover Day” on February 29. This marks the deadline for all bills to pass through their originating chamber, commonly referred to as the house of origin. Our advocacy for Georgians has yielded significant accomplishments, including property tax relief, tort reform, reduction of regulatory burdens, enhancements in public safety, and much more. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my Senate colleagues, particularly those within the majority caucus, for their unwavering dedication to advancing legislation on behalf of all Georgians.

As a member of the Senate Republican Caucus, I’m delighted to announce the successful passage of all priority bills of the majority caucus out of the Senate, highlighted by the approval of Senate Bill 449. This bill, aimed at exempting certain military medical personnel from examination requirements, eliminates unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles and bolsters Georgia’s reputation as the premier state for business.

The Georgia Senate also discussed and passed its amended budget for Fiscal Year 2024. This budget increases funding for maintaining safe and efficient road infrastructure and provides essential support for industries such as agriculture, manufacturing and logistics. It also allocates resources to enhance retirement and healthcare benefits, vital for retaining our state’s workforce. Our commitment to a balanced budget ensures Georgia’s efficiency, fiscal conservatism and attractiveness for investment.

In addition to advocating for our majority caucus’ priorities, I continued working diligently on my individual legislative priorities.  I am proud to report that another piece of legislation has moved over to the House. Senate Bill 334, titled the Helping Firefighters Beat Cancer Act, was favorably reported out of the House Insurance Committee. Our firefighters deserve our unwavering support, and I’m thankful to see this legislation continuing to move through the House.

Two pieces of legislation I have worked hard on are also continuing to move through the Senate chamber. Senate Bill 473, titled the Georgia Consumer Privacy Protection Act will take additional steps to protect Georgians’ personal data. Additionally, Senate Resolution 471 will create a Senate Study Committee on access to affordable childcare. This is absolutely a priority for Georgia families and future generations and I am proud to take further steps toward facilitating positive discussions in the child healthcare space.

Lastly, I am delighted to declare that two pieces of my legislation are ready to be taken up on the Senate floor. Senate Bill 417, regarding the reporting of accidents has passed out of the Senate Committee on Public Safety. Additionally, Senate Bill 472, titled the “Combating Organized Retail Crime Act,” was passed out of the same committee. These bills will further protect Georgians in their everyday lives both virtually and physically.

I joined my Senate colleagues in passing several bipartisan pieces of legislation aimed at supporting both veterans and families. The Georgia Senate approved multiple measures designed to offer essential services to our state’s veterans, and I was privileged to endorse this legislation. Having dedicated their lives to defending our country, it’s crucial that we fulfill our commitment as legislators. Additionally, the Senate body voted on a series of legislative bills relating to children and families. Thursday, I was proud to join my Senate colleagues in voting unanimously to pass Senate Bill 376, a bill which improves the timely permanent placement of a child removed from their home. Protecting Georgia’s next generation leaders is an idea we can all get behind, and I will always fight for their future.

Furthermore, my colleagues and I were delighted to be present on Wednesday for the swearing-in of Georgia’s newest Republican senator, Tim Bearden (R-Carrollton). Senator Bearden joins us at an important time for our state and I look forward to serving alongside him throughout the remainder of our legislative session.

Each week under the Gold Dome, constituents, associations and organizations alike come to the Capitol to speak to legislators and host events with public officials. I was personally honored to recognize Rear Admiral Casey W. Coane for his 34 years of military service. An opportunity to recognize our service members, active and retired, is one that I am honored to be a part of.

As always, I want to invite students between the ages of 12 and 18 to serve as a Capitol Page. I encourage any students interested in the legislative process who want to spend a day at our Capitol to apply for our program using the link: https://www.legis.ga.gov/senate/staffing.

Please never hesitate to contact my office if I can assist with legislative matters. I hope to see you under the Gold Dome soon as the 2024 Legislative Session continues.

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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]

Senator Albers Applauds Progress of “Justice for Victims of Drug Induced Homicide Act”

House Bill 167, carried in the Senate by Sen. John Albers (R–Roswell), progressed out of the Senate Committee on Public Safety this week and will soon reach the Senate floor after unanimously passing in the House in 2023. This bill, known as the “Justice for Victims of Drug Induced Homicide Act,” will strengthen and enhance the protections for victims of the dangerous impacts of illegal drugs.

Sen. Albers collaborated with Cherokee County District Attorney Susan Treadaway on crafting the language and actions to be taken by this piece of legislation.

“District Attorney Susan K. Treadaway continues to be a leader in fighting crime and protecting victims,”   Sen. Albers said. “This bill will support victims and first responders from the dangerous effects of illegal drugs. I am grateful for Susan’s leadership and tenacity to prosecute these horrific crimes.”

The “Justice for Victims of Drug Induced Homicide Act” aims to update and revise Georgia’s criminal laws relating to the offenses and penalties regarding the regulation of  certain controlled substances, including those that manufacture, deliver, distribute, or sell in cases that a death or serious bodily injury occurs.

“Over the course of the last five years, more than 6,000 families buried loved ones in Georgia as a result of the drug epidemic, with fentanyl serving as a primary contributing factor,” said District Attorney Treadaway. “This proposed change in the law will provide prosecutors with the appropriate tool to hold all those accountable for the lives lost to this crisis, and in turn, serve as a deterrent for those inclined to possess and distribute controlled substances in Georgia. I look forward to the continued partnership with Senator John Albers as we work to provide greater protections for first responders and all Georgians. ”

You can find more information on HB 167 here.

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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]

Governor Kemp endorses Senator Albers

“Senator Albers represents what a true leader and public servant should be, and has never wavered in his commitment to serving his fellow Georgians,” said Governor Kemp. He is a champion for our state’s first responders and veterans, and has played a role in keeping our communities safe and ensuring Georgia remains the #1 state to do business. I’m proud to support Senator Albers for re-election and know that he will continue working to represent the interests of all families across Senate District 56.”

Senator Albers: Week Six Under the Gold Dome

We are officially more than halfway through the 2024 Legislative Session. I am proud to share that we are delivering for Georgians by cutting red tape, maintaining our stellar budget, protecting law enforcement officers and pushing back against hate. While we have enjoyed a robust first half of legislative work, plenty of meaningful work lies ahead before the conclusion of the legislative session. Serving the 56th Senate District remains my greatest honor.

I continued my hard work throughout this past week, drafting and advocating on behalf of numerous pieces of legislation designed to benefit you. I’m delighted to report progress on several pieces of legislation I’ve authored. Senate Bill 334, known as the “Helping Firefighters Beat Cancer Act,” received unanimous approval on the Senate floor earlier this week. This crucial bill takes tangible steps to support of my fellow firefighters who have selflessly served our communities for generations. Given their heightened risk of cancer diagnosis, it’s imperative that they have access to top-notch insurance coverage. I extend my sincere gratitude to my senate colleagues for their unwavering support.

Additionally, I’m pleased to share that two more bills I’ve championed are advancing through the legislative process. Senate Bill 472, aimed at implementing the “Combating Organized Retail Crime Act,” passed the Senate Committee on Public Safety. With the escalating threat of organized retail crime affecting more Georgians, this legislation is vital. Similarly, Senate Bill 473, the Georgia Consumer Privacy Protection Act, has been referred to the Senate Committee on Science and Technology. In an age where technology and personal data are increasingly vulnerable, this bill takes significant strides in safeguarding the personal data of Georgia consumers.


My colleagues and I proudly joined Governor Brian P. Kemp on the North Steps of the State Capitol to officially announce that the Georgia National Guard would be sending additional troops to help fortify our country’s southern border. Under the leadership of our current President, our southern border is a growing disaster. Our federal lawmakers continue to look the other way and take no action, while southern states are further inundated by illegal immigrants. At the same time, lethal drugs are pouring across our border every day, leading to drug overdoses and eternally broken families. Many who come across our border illegally are small children which directly affects Georgia’s foster care system. While Georgia does not touch our nation’s northern or southern borders, every state under Joe Biden’s America is now what I would consider a border state. Your State Senate does not support the continuation of these actions, and I am thankful that our body chose to stand for further border control across the United States.

This week, I was proud to support a few pieces of bipartisan Senate legislation, such as Senate Bill 426. This measure addresses an aspect of tort reform by limiting the ability of plaintiffs to sue motor carriers and their insurers simultaneously. As we continue to prioritize workforce development, it’s essential that we prioritize tort reform. Too many current laws make it easy to file frivolous lawsuits that increase costs for insurance companies and, in turn, needlessly limit economic opportunity across our state. By limiting certain lawsuits, we incentivize future entrepreneurs to open their own small business.

Each week under the Gold Dome, constituents, associations and organizations alike come to the Capitol to speak to legislators and host events with public officials. I had the personal honor of acknowledging the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office in the company of Senators Kay Kirkpatrick, Ed Setzler, and Michael Rhett. The Cobb County Sheriff’s Office stands out as one of the few nationwide and only five in Georgia to have received a triple crown award for their exceptional service to the county. Additionally, I took pride in standing alongside my son and others later in the week as we commemorated Organ Donor Day. This day holds significant meaning for me, as I had the privilege of donating a kidney to my son, ultimately saving his life in 2021.

As always, I want to invite students between the ages of 12 and 18 to serve as a Capitol Page. This program encourages Georgia’s next generation of great leaders to participate in the legislative process by providing a front-row seat to a day’s work in the Georgia Senate. Many of our current legislators participated in this program and first became interested in serving Georgia citizens because of their time spent as a Capitol Page. I encourage any students interested in the legislative process who want to spend a day at our Capitol to apply for our program using the link: https://www.legis.ga.gov/senate/staffing.

Please never hesitate to contact my office if I can assist with legislative matters. I hope to see you under the Gold Dome soon as the 2024 Legislative Session continues.

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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]