Parent Press Week 5 of the 2024 Legislative Session
Being in the minority means not having a lot of power. But it doesn't silence our voice or weaken our muscles. I and my fellow Democrats took to the mic several times last week to fight for the values we and most Georgians share. I hope you're listening during this contentious legislative session because there's a lot at stake here.
Tax Giveaway for Guns, Ammo and More
The Republican majority seems to hoard and try to give away money all at the same time. With a $16 Billion surplus, offering Georgians a short sales tax holiday may not seem worth fighting over. But how we spend money says so much about our values, and I believe we should put our money where our mouth is.
When Republicans put SB 344, a partisan bill that will give a tax break on guns, ammo, and gun safes close to the beginning of hunting season up for a vote, it didn't take me any time to know where I stand. While I value our state’s hunting and outdoor recreational traditions, I voted ‘NO’ on this legislation and against the persistent rates of gun violence in our state. Guns are the leading cause of death for kids in our state.
I filed SB 75 last session; yet, Republicans in charge have refused to allow a hearing on this legislation that could save lives in Georgia and spare so many families a lifetime of grief. Meanwhile, a 3 year old died after shooting himself in the face on Sunday.
Cheaper guns coupled with Georgia’s already lax gun control laws mean more guns on our streets. This tax break allows the state to subsidize more guns that will only increase gun violence in our communities. You can hear my remarks in the well HERE.
An Attack on Unions in Georgia
This past Thursday, Senate Democrats took to the well to oppose SB 362, the Governor's bill, that uses state economic incentives to manage how a business deals with union organizing. Important to note is that not one pro-union organization supports this legislation. In solidarity with Georgia’s unions and working families, I voted ‘NO’.
Democrats spoke to the possible intimidation that this bill exposes workers to while they work to achieve higher wages, safer work environments, and more comprehensive benefits for their families. While our caucus dominated the time in the well on this issue, again, Republican support was solid and the majority prevailed. Click on the image below to catch up on what the media had to say.
Making the News
There is so much happening here at the Capitol and so quickly. I assure you that the following are my radar. If these issues concern you, I urge to take action (see below) quickly to make your voice heard.
SB 390 was heard in the Senate Committee on Government Oversight. This bill would "would prohibit city, county, and regional libraries from using either tax dollars or private funds on any materials offered by the American Library Association (ALA)," as reported on Capitol Beat. You can listen to the discussion about this contentious bill on Vimeo.
The Okefenokee Swamp, a state treasure, is not safe from mining. Alabama-based Twin Pines Minerals is planning to mine titanium dioxide on Trail Ridge. Again, Capitol Beat can keep you informed.
HB 404 to require landlords to provide rental units "fit for human habitation" passed out of the Senate Judiciary Committee and will come to the Senate for a vote. Georgia needs tenant protections, but some feel this bill doesn't go far enough. Read more from Atlanta Civic Circle (published before the committee met on Feb. 12).
SB 88 proscribes how private schools handle issues of gender identity is back in the Education & Youth committee. The language is tightened up, but is still problematic.
SB 390 would abolish the requirement that public library directors be certified and would remove national accreditation from Valdosta State University’s master’s in library science and School Library Media Specialist degree programs. The bill was heard in committee (no vote was taken) with lots of testimony and we await the next steps, perhaps a substitute.
Town Hall - You're Invited
You're invited to join me at a Town Hall Rep. Saira Draper has organized with several elected officials this week on Thursday, February 15 at Cedar Grove United Methodist Church at 6pm. Sign up HERE to join us!
I also invite you to join me at Clayton State University on Tuesday, February 20 at 6:30Pm to talk about what is and is not going on in our state legislature.
What can YOU do?
If you're reading this, you are engaging in politics and our state government. Thank you. I know you want to be heard and that the process is full of frustration. Things move fast and emails are not very effective. Republican bills move at lightning speed and there are many hearings.
We cannot be turned around or deterred. I encourage you to show up at the rope lines and call legislators out to address any issue you care about. I know this can be an intimidating experience for some. You may want to join with an advocacy organization for Lobby Days where you can get some training. You can register for one this month.
Georgia Reproductive Justice Advocacy Day by SisterSong, Planned Parenthood SE, and others. Thursday, February 15th. Register here.
Georgia ERA Day, by the ERA Coalition. Wednesday, February 21, Register here.
Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense Advocacy Day, February 21, Register here.
Medicaid Coverage Expansion Day, Cover Georgia, Monday, February 26, Register here.
Always BE Vote Ready
Many of you have reached out asking if your district has changed. Be sure to check My Voter Page to confirm your registration - even if you've been voting for years. Mark your calendar with these key dates.
If you see an inconsistencies or have any questions, call the Secretary of State's office or your county Board of Elections office immediately. You can reach DeKalb County BOE at 404-298-4020.
To keep you up to date, I will send newsletters often during the session. Please connect with me on social media to get updates.
Thank you for the honor to serve you in the Georgia State Senate.