Update from the Capitol: Week Three

COLUMN

Contact: Ines Owens, Director
Elisabeth Fletcher, Communications Specialist
elisabeth.fletcher@senate.ga.gov 404.656.0028

Update from the Capitol: Week Three

By: Sen. Larry Walker (R - Perry)

The past three weeks at the Capitol have come and gone, leaving just 30 legislative days left under the gold dome to introduce, vet and pass legislation. This week, committee meetings began to discuss bills and we had many people from all over the state here to celebrate our growing tourism industry and successful economic development initiatives.

This week, the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) hosted their annual Mayors Day and I met with Warner Robins Mayor Randy Toms and Council, Dublin Mayor Phil Best, Sr. and Council and Perry Mayor James Faithcloth and Council over two days. We talked about projects in their respective communities and ways the state could be of help. We also discussed pending legislation of concern to them, including bills related to franchise fees and control of right of ways. Local elected officials are closest to the citizens and have the daunting responsibility of providing the services we rely on every day such as water, sewer, natural gas, sanitation public safety, etc. They are where the 'rubber meets the road' and it is always beneficial to hear directly from them on ways we can be supportive. I am glad that GMA holds these events that provide opportunities for productive dialogue and problem solving, and welcome their input on issues important to GMA members.

In addition to this meeting, I also met with representatives from Blue Bird Corporation. As many of you know, Blue Bird is a large employer in Middle Georgia. With almost 2,500 employees, they have a substantial economic impact on our area, with plans to grow. Ensuring that we are a business-friendly state for businesses of all sizes is a top priority of mine, and I am supportive of legislation that will keep Georgia the number one state in which to conduct business.

Thursday, I joined Senate Leadership for breakfast with the Governor and First Lady at the Governor's Mansion. This was quite an honor and a treat. I am grateful for the outstanding service the Deal's have rendered to our state and look forward to successfully passing his legislative agenda this session.

Our page program is a great way for children to see state government working first-hand. It's an experience that often leaves a lasting impression of public service on many and is just as fun as it is educational. If you know of anyone over the age of 12 who is interested in serving as a Senate page, please let my office know. I'm always proud to showcase students from my district to the Senate.

In the coming weeks, we expect to work on the budget and hope to pass it in a timely manner. If you have any questions about the budget process, or about legislation in general, please let me know. I am more than happy to answer your questions to the best of my ability and take your comments and concerns into consideration. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you.

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Sen. Larry Walker serves as an Administration Floor Leader. He represents the 20th Senate District, which includes Bleckley, Laurens, Pulaski Counties and most of Houston County. He may be reached at his Atlanta office at 404.656.0081 or by email at larry.walker@senate.ga.gov.