Agriculture Relief Funding Applications + Association Meetings
It’s been another great week traveling across the state to meet with constituents, discuss our upcoming legislative priorities, and speak to professional associations about the issues and policies most important to their industries and members.
Check out some of this week’s highlights below:
Applications Open for Agriculture Relief Funds
The application periods for agriculture relief funds through the Georgia Forestry Commission, SAFETY 24 Hurricane Helene Relief Loan Program, and The Weathered But Strong Georgia Hurricane Relief Fund are now open.
Please see more information about the requirements and application process for these programs below:
Georgia Forestry Commission Programs
The Georgia Forestry Commission is accepting applications for two separate relief funds for Georgia foresters impacted by Hurricane Helene—The Hurricane Helene Fuel Mitigation (FMit) Program and The Forest Access Road and Firebreak Restoration Project.
To view the requirements and apply for the FMit program, please visit the link below:
https://gatrees.org/forest-management-conservation/natural-disaster-recovery/hurricane-helene-recovery-assistance/hurricane-helene-fuel-mitigation-grant
Applications for the FMit program will be accepted through Dec. 13, 2024.
To view program requirements and apply for The Forest Access Road and Firebreaks Restoration Project, please visit the link below:
https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/cc6827dcf2294113a6a0aaafe477c131?width=1000
Applications for The Forest Access Road and Firebreaks Restoration Project will be accepted through Dec. 6, 2024.
SAFETY 24 Hurricane Helene Relief Loan Program
The Georgia Development Authority has opened applications for the SAFETY 24 Hurricane Helene Relief Loan Program to farm operators who suffered losses from Hurricane Helene and reside in a FEMA-designated disaster area or adjacent county. Applicants are eligible to receive up to $500,000 at a 2% fixed interest rate.
To view program requirements and apply for the SAFETY 24 Hurricane Helene Relief Loan Program, please visit the link below:
https://www.gdaonline.com/hurricane-helene-loan-program/
Weathered But Strong Georgia Hurricane Relief Fund
The Weathered But Strong Georgia Hurricane Relief Fund and its more than 40 agriculture partners are accepting applications from Georgia farmers impacted by Hurricane Helene.
To view program requirements and apply for the Weathered But Strong Georgia Hurricane Relief Fund, please visit the link below:
https://www.supportgeorgiafarmers.org/application
Applications will be accepted through Dec. 31, 2024.
University of Georgia Legislative Game
Over the weekend, I joined our friends at the University of Georgia for the annual legislative football game and reception. It was a great day to spend time with many of our House members, friends, and supporters.
It was a pleasure to host Tennessee Speaker of the House, Cameron Sexton, his Chief of Staff, Kevin Johnson and his wife Lauren, as well as Nashville talk radio host, Matt Murphy to watch the Bulldogs take on the Volunteers. Thank you to the incredible University of Georgia staff and President Jere Morehead for the invitation.
Dayle and I at the University of Georgia’s legislative game
Dayle and I with Board of Regents member Everett Kennedy and his wife, Staci at the University of Georgia’s legislative game
New Member Orientation
It was a pleasure to welcome all of the newly elected legislators to the General Assembly alongside Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones on Tuesday. Congratulations to these members on their well-deserved victories this election cycle.
I am looking forward to working alongside this incredible group of leaders to keep our state the best place to live, work, and raise a family during the upcoming legislative session.
Our newly-elected members of the Georgia House are as follows:
Gabriel Sanchez (District 42)
Bryce Berry (District 56)
Mekyah McQueen (District 61)
Sylvia Wayfer Baker (District 64)
Robert Dawson (District 65)
Jutt Howard (District 71)
Robert Flournoy (District 74)
Noelle Kahaian (District 81)
Arlene Beckles (District 96)
Donatucci, Sandy (District 105)
Mary Ann Santos (District 117)
LC Myles Jr. (District 126)
Rob Clifton (District 131)
Anissa Jones (District 143)
Tangie Herring (District 145)
Floyd Griffin (District 149)
Angie O'Steen (District 169)
Jaclyn Dixon Ford (District 170)
Welcoming the newly elected members of the Georgia General Assembly with Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones
Flame of Hope Award
On Tuesday, I joined the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities to celebrate the recipients of their annual Flame of Hope Award.
This award is given to Georgians who have gone above and beyond to provide hope, healing, and joy to their communities. It was my honor to present a Flame of Hope Award to Teresa Irby. For 38 years, Teresa has served the Community Service Board of Middle Georgia and Ogeechee Behavioral Services with tireless commitment.
She also champions annual efforts such as the I/DD Prom, a joyful celebration that brings together her clients, local high school students, and the greater community to create unforgettable moments of inclusion and connection.
Congratulations, Teresa, and thank you for your dedication to providing these vital services to your community.
Presenting a 2024 Flame of Hope Award to Teresa Irby alongside Commissioner Kevin Tanner and our wonderful helper Ella
Georgia Chamber and Manufacturing Association Meetings
On Tuesday, I had the opportunity to attend the Georgia Chamber’s Fall GAC meeting and discuss the initiatives we’re working on in the House to keep our state the Number One Place for Business. Thank you to Georgia Chamber President and CEO, Chris Clark, and to all of the business representatives across the state for their continued partnership and input as we look forward to 2025.
I also met with members of the Georgia Association of Manufacturers to discuss our state’s record economic development success and the historic growth we’re witnessing in every corner of Georgia. As we continue to see the manufacturing industry develop across the state, the House is committed to continue championing measures that bolster our economy and workforce.
Dayle and I with staff members of Cornerstone Government Affairs at the Georgia Chamber’s Fall GAC meeting
Speaking with Brittany Hull at the Georgia Association of Manufacturers’ annual meeting
Statesboro Children’s Lending Libraries
The Bulloch County Literacy Council, in partnership with local organizations and businesses, is repurposing old newspaper boxes into sharing libraries stocked with children's books to promote literacy and accessibility. This initiative, part of the Bulloch READ program, aims to foster a culture of reading by providing free, accessible books in community spaces like Luetta Moore Park, supported by a Georgia Department of Education Community Transformation Grant and local sponsors. Thank you to Grice Connect for sharing this exciting initiative.
Crystal Simpkins with the "book box" at Luetta Moore Park – Credit Blake Williams with Grice Connect
As always, it’s great to see and hear from each of you. I hope to speak with you all soon.
My best,
Speaker Jon Burns