Law Enforcement Appreciation, Improving Healthcare + Safeguarding Elections
It was another jam-packed week in Atlanta, full of legislation on the move, committee meetings, and policy discussions to make our state a better place. We’re past the halfway mark in the legislative session, and the Capitol is in full swing.
On the legislative front, we were able to move forward a number of positive pieces of legislation this week, starting with the introduction of HB 1339—which will increase access for rural healthcare and streamline the Certificate of Need (CON) process by which healthcare facilities can be built in our rural communities. It also will create the Comprehensive Health Coverage Commission, which will be comprised of members appointed by myself, the Governor and Lieutenant Governor to gather the facts, hear from policy experts and stakeholders, and determine the best path forward to extend healthcare coverage across the state. Taken together, this bill will be a great step toward improving healthcare outcomes in rural Georgia, and I remain hopeful the Senate and Lieutenant Governor will give it full consideration.
Work is always better when you can have a little fun!
Over the past week, we were also able to move forward legislation that safeguards our elections by creating penalties for election interference using generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), increasing retirement benefits for law enforcement, and protecting our children from bad actors.
We also took the time this week to honor our law enforcement. Thursday was Law Enforcement Day at the Capitol, and we welcomed officers from the Georgia State Patrol, Department of Natural Resources, and the Motor Carrier Compliance Division. Among those who were honored were Colonel Billy Hitchens and Trooper First Class Steven Spires. Our brave heroes in law enforcement put their lives on the line every day, and the House has and will always continue supporting them at every step of the way.
Law Enforcement Day at the Capitol
Throughout the week, we had the privilege of speaking to the FFA Georgia group—which is the third largest chapter in the country, a fantastic delegation from Georgia Southern, as well as Leadership Augusta. One of the best parts of my job is meeting with Georgians from across the state, hearing about their passions and issues, and working with them to make a real difference. If you or your organization are ever interested in coming to the Capitol, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team to schedule a meeting!
Crossover Day is approaching next week, where any bills considered for full passage by the General Assembly must be passed out of at least one chamber. It will be a busy sprint, but I’m very proud of the work my colleagues in the House have put in to get us to this point. We have passed a number of good bills, with more on the way.
Thank you all for your continued support as always, and let us know if we can ever be of service to you.
My Best,
Speaker Jon Burns
Supporting our law enforcement at Law Enforcement Day at the Capitol!