Special Session on Redistricting
The Special Session continues this week. Last week, both the House and Senate adopted new maps for their respective legislative districts. Those maps now go to the other chamber to be reviewed and approved. Late Friday afternoon a new congressional map was introduced and will also be considered this week.
All these maps comply with the instructions of the federal judge, who overturned the maps the General Assembly approved two years ago. These new maps will go to the judge for consideration before his December 8th deadline, if adopted by both chambers and signed into law by Governor Kemp.
I appreciate all the members of the House and Senate who are taking time away from their jobs and families to help us satisfy the judge’s requirements.
In addition, the state is still planning to appeal the judge’s ruling to a higher federal court so that we may get our originally adopted maps restored.
As this Special Session continues, you are welcome to come to watch your state government at work by visiting the State Capitol and viewing our session from the fourth-floor public galleries. You are also invited to watch both committee and floor sessions live on the House website at https://www.legis.ga.gov/.
Thankful for friends and deep roots…
Last week, when we convened for this year’s Special Session, I had the honor of doing so with a very special gavel. I am grateful to my friend, Ronny Just, for crafting a new gavel with an accompanying strike plate made from the timber of a Live Oak at Sweetheart Circle on the campus of my alma mater, Georgia Southern University.
The symbolism of this gavel is not lost on me – both the tree and I find our roots in the same soil. I was blessed not only to graduate from Georgia Southern, but meet my wife, Dayle, while we were students there. While my duties require me to spend a great deal of time in Atlanta these days, home is never far from my heart.
I appreciate dear friends who would provide such a meaningful gift. Thanks to Ronny Just, Bryan Tolar, Emily Engel, and Bill Benzur.
Historic News in the Governor’s Office
Last week, Governor Kemp announced that his dedicated Chief of Staff Trey Kilpatrick would be leaving public service to take on a senior leadership role in the private sector. Trey has been an invaluable partner working with my staff and me over the last year in crafting policy and overseeing the work of our state government. I appreciate Trey’s service and friendship.
Trey’s replacement will make history. Longtime state staffer and current-Deputy Chief of Staff, Lauren Curry, becomes the first lady appointed as Chief of Staff to the Governor of Georgia. Lauren has served our state well for many years, and I congratulate her on this historic achievement. My staff and I look forward to continuing to work with her and Governor Kemp to keep Georgia the envy of the nation.
Bipartisan support for others
While partisanship tends to run high during legislative sessions, I was proud to join members of both parties in donating blood at the State Capitol last Wednesday.
Every donation of blood can help up to three individuals receiving medical care, and as we know, every life is priceless.
Giving blood is an easy way to help your friends and neighbors. If you would like more information on donating blood, visit https://www.redcross.org/give-blood.html.