Weekly Legislative Update – Week 2

Bill would Redefine Establishment of a Transit Authority Passes Committee

Legislation introduced by Rep. John Carson (R-East Cobb) unanimously passed both a Transportation subcommittee and the full committee this week.  The legislation, if passed, would allow for the establishment of a transit authority in any community in the state, upon designation by the legislature.  The bill now goes before the House Rules committee for consideration on the House floor.

Amended Fiscal Year 2014 Passes House – Headed to Senate

The amended budget for the fiscal year (FY) ending on June 30, 2014 was adopted by the House.  The final amended state budget for FY14 came to $20.2 billion in state funds, a $300 million increase from the original $19.9 billion FY14 budget.  Total state and federal spending for fiscal year 2014 will be just over $41 billion.  The largest increase in the amended budget was an additional $140 million for education to primarily help growing school systems.

Thirty-one Legislative Days Remain in 2014 Legislative Session

The legislature has completed nine legislative days of the 40 day legislative session.  The legislature will be in session all five days this week.

During these first nine legislative days, the House has introduced 142 bills and 90 resolutions and the Senate only 27 bills and 43 resolutions.  As an indication of the legislatures desire to adjourn quickly, the House has introduced 30% fewer bills and the Senate less than 1/3 the number of bills as last year at this time.

Have a great week.

For detailed information on specific legislation visit:   www.legis.ga.gov/Legislation/en-US/Search.aspx